Become a LEAF Volunteer
Join the LEAF volunteer team and help our urban forest thrive!
Our volunteers play a critical role in helping us improve the urban forest. We rely on the support and dedication of our volunteers to implement many of our community programs. We strive to ensure that every volunteer has a meaningful, fulfilling and fun experience!
Benefits of being a LEAF volunteer:
- Contribute to the improvement of the urban forest in your community
- Meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for nature
- Gain knowledge about urban forestry, native tree species, local biodiversity and so much more!
- Receive a special thank you gift for reaching volunteer milestones:
- LEAF t-shirt after volunteering 25 hours
- $75 LEAF gift certificate after volunteering 100 hours
- Participate in our annual volunteer appreciation event!
There are many ways that you can get involved depending on your skills, interests and availability. Please note that we only accept volunteers over the age of 18. Current opportunities include:
Planting and Stewardship Events
- Assist by planting and mulching native trees and shrubs
- Experienced volunteers can assist with training and quality control
- Planting events take place in spring (April - June) and fall (September - October) in York Region and Durham Region
Garden Steward Teams
- Care for our LEAF Learning Garden or one of our Urban Forest Demonstration Gardens, located across Toronto, from April to November
- Tasks may include watering, weeding, litter pick-up and more!
- Attend additional training session and workshops
Community Outreach and Education
- Represent LEAF at community events and connect with people about the Urban Forest and LEAF’s work
- Share your tree knowledge and inspire others to take action
- Attend additional training session
Other Tasks
- Contribute to our blog and newsletter
- Help capture photographs and video of our great LEAF moments
- Help LEAF staff with administrative tasks
Becoming a LEAF Volunteer is as easy as 1, 2, TREE!
1. Sign up for our "Interested in Becoming a LEAF Volunteer" list
- Click here to sign up
- Provide us with some information so we can get to know you better!
2. Attend a Volunteer Orientation
- Receive an overview of LEAF’s volunteer programs
- Learn about the urban forest and how you can get involved
3. Participate in Volunteer Programs
- Register for the LEAF volunteer programs you’re interested in
- Find out about new volunteer opportunities through our Volunteer Call Out newsletter
- Participate in as many LEAF programs as you can
- Meet new friends and become part of our volunteer community