The Wasatch Back is a hub for family-friendly volunteer activities that makes giving back to the community as rewarding as it is fun. From the loving eyes of rescue dogs waiting for a friendly pat or the quiet of nature preserves that protect the region’s flora and fauna, to the noble stance of horses in need of care, there is a wide blend of volunteer opportunities that appeal to families eager to make a difference while creating memories together. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor looking to leave a positive impact, these engaging activities not only contribute to the well-being of the environment and those who live here but also instill invaluable lessons of compassion, teamwork, and stewardship of the land for children and adults.
Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter
Swaner spans an impressive 1,200 acres, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and eco-conscious learning. This preserve is headquartered in a state-of-the-art LEED Platinum-certified facility and is a gateway to immersive environmental experiences. Volunteers can work in the building and on grounds maintenance, doing weekly weed pulls, helping with pollinator garden maintenance and Sunday crafts.
Visit www.swanerecocenter.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog for a catalog of all volunteer opportunities.
Nuzzles and Co.
This animal rescue organization thrives on the invaluable time and effort contributed by volunteers as they champion the cause for the most vulnerable shelter animals across our state and beyond. Anyone is welcome to come and walk dogs, help with laundry and gardening, or spend time with the animals at the Adoption Center. Email arin@nuzzlsandco.org or visit www.nuzzlesandco.org/volunteer/\ to sign up to volunteer.
Summit Community Gardens
Families and individuals are welcome to volunteer in the 1.5-acre garden, helping with soil preparation and harvesting each week. Harvested foods from demonstration beds are donated to families in need through the Food Farmacy Program. Summer Camps for elementary-aged children provide an educational and fun environment for outdoor exploration in eight different themes. Visit www.summitcommunitygardens.org/2024-summer-camps-elementary to register. Visit www.summitcommunitygardens.org/volunteer-sign-up to sign up.
Sage Mountain Sanctuary
Located ten miles from Park City, Sage Mountain is a safe haven for rescued farm animals and an advocate for their welfare. Founded in 2013 by Lauren Lockey and Dave Swartz, the sanctuary is home to pigs, cows, chickens, goats, and sheep—all enjoying serene and loving care. Sage Mountain offers group volunteer opportunities every Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. Individual volunteer slots are available throughout the week. Prospective volunteers are asked to sign up for an orientation session through their website at www.sagemtn.org or email
info@sagemtn.org for more details.
Liberty Sanctuary
Founded by Debra West, Liberty Sanctuary gives horses a second chance. Operated by a dedicated team of volunteers, this nonprofit organization focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of neglected horses or those at risk of being sent to kill pens. Volunteer opportunities include cleaning stalls and feeding horses. Volunteers are welcome to observe training clinics, and for those wanting to learn horsemanship, the sanctuary offers an opportunity to become an apprentice trainer.
Visit www.libertysanctuary.org/volunteer to sign up.
National Ability Center
Event volunteers are always needed for various annual events. Opportunities range from setup and cleanup to leading opportunity drawings, selling beverages, and more. Upcoming events include the August Summit Challenge and the October Halloween Party. People interested in contributing to programs must undergo specific training. Training is offered in archery, indoor climbing, cycling, mountain biking, equestrian activities, paddle sports, challenge courses, and day camps during summer. Volunteers for programs must be over 16 years of age. However, 11-16-year-olds can engage as “Peer Partners” by signing up for designated trainings listed on the website. Peer Partner opportunities are available for the camps and cycling programs. To register, email volunteer@discovernac.org or visit
www.volunteer.discovernac.org.