As Boy Scouts, we actively participate in volunteer service projects each year to support our community and demonstrate the values of Scouting. Through consistent service, leadership, and teamwork, our Cub Scouts contribute meaningful hours that reflect their commitment to helping others. In the past, we have applied for the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) to honor their dedication. However, as this award is currently pending, we have now switched to applying for the National Service Honor Awards (https://www.nationalservicehonor.org/). These prestigious awards not only recognize the hard work and contributions of our scouts but also encourage the continued development of their character, citizenship, and service to others.
Each year, our Scouts actively look for meaningful volunteer opportunities to serve our community. Some of the options we consider include participating in the San Jose Adopt‑a‑Park Program, joining beach cleanup efforts such as those organized by Pacific Beach Coalition, volunteering at a farm like Animal Assisted Happiness, scouting for food, and other youth- and community-oriented outreach initiatives. To explore and sign up for these volunteer opportunities, please check the websites below.
We encourage Scouts and parents to review these and other opportunities to find a volunteer activity that matches their interests and availability. Parents are welcome to sign up their Cub Scouts directly for any of the volunteer opportunities listed on the organizations’ websites, either as individual participants or as a family. Many of these programs also allow small groups, so Scouts are encouraged to attend together as a den or invite friends to join. This flexibility makes it easy for families to choose service activities that best fit their schedules while still giving our Scouts meaningful ways to contribute to the community.
Animal Assisted Happiness (AAH) is a nonprofit that provides “smiles and laughter” to children facing health or family challenges by using therapy farm animals. Scouts can volunteer by helping with farm chores (cleaning animal areas, filling water, prepping food, light maintenance), assisting during “Smile Farm” open days, or participating in special events. This is a great opportunity for Cub Scouts who love animals and want a hands-on, meaningful service experience.
Website & volunteer info: animalassistedhappiness.org
Typical tasks: feeding animals, farm cleanup, garden work, prepping supplies for therapy visits
Suitable for: youth volunteers (parent required for younger ages), families, and groups
The Pacific Beach Coalition (PBC) organizes coastal cleanups, habitat restoration, and environmental education events along the Pacific Coast—from Daly City to Half Moon Bay. Scouts can participate in monthly beach cleanups, Earth Day events, habitat restoration work, and special conservation projects that help protect marine wildlife. This is an excellent service opportunity for Cub Scouts who enjoy outdoor, environmental, and ocean-focused activities.
Website & volunteer info: pacificbeachcoalition.org. (https://www.pacificbeachcoalition.org/take-action/monthly-adopt-a-beach-cleanups/)
Typical tasks: beach trash removal, dune restoration, invasive plant removal, native plant care, wildlife protection projects
Suitable for: youth, families, Scout packs/troops, and large service groups
This program allows individuals and youth groups (like Scouts) to “adopt” a park or trail and help with regular upkeep (litter pick-up, weeding, painting, mulching, etc.).
Sign-up / info: use the City’s volunteer page. San Jose Adopt-A-Park
Good for long-term commitment to a specific park/trail (especially if your troop wants ongoing service).
Trail maintenance and restoration: volunteers help clear trails, remove weeds/invasive plants, and do other maintenance — great for Scouts who like hiking + working outdoors. San Jose Volunteer Opportunities
Typically held the second Saturday of the month.
Wear appropriate clothes (long pants, closed-toe shoes), bring water, and sign up via the City’s volunteer registration.
Volunteers (including youth and families) help with gardening tasks like deadheading, pruning, weeding, and general upkeep of the garden. This is a good option for Scouts who enjoy gardening or want a less “rough-and-tumble” service activity. Friends of the SJ Rose Garden
To get involved: sign up on their website as “Friends in the Rose Garden.”
Flexible volunteer availability; they welcome all levels of ability.
Another great option for garden- and nature-oriented service. The Heritage Rose Garden is maintained mostly by volunteers. Tasks include weeding, pruning, planting, and propagation. Regular volunteer days are held (e.g., Saturday mornings) and training / tools are provided.
Contact: volunteer coordinator via the Conservancy. Heritage Roses
Come join us for the monthly cleanup at Iris Chang Park to remember one of our own local best authors, and keep our park beautiful! This is an in-person event where we will provide all the necessary tools for the cleanup. Bring your friends and family to make a difference in our neighborhood. Let's show some love to our people, park and environment! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/iris-chang-park-monthly-cleanup-tickets-1072018378829
Every 2nd Sunday from 9am to approximately 11am, weather permitting.
Parking is very limited. Please park in the busiess park at the cross section of Epic Way and Seely Ave.
Please wear closed toe working shoes, clothes don't mind to get dirty, sunscreen, and water.
Via the City’s general volunteer-with-us page, there are occasional “Community Day” or “Sunday Series” volunteer events in neighborhood parks (e.g., clean-ups, maintenance, beautification). This is useful if a full adoption or long-term commitment isn’t feasible for your troop. City of San José