Opportunities From: HandsOn Twin Cities

Overview / Impact:
Help connect students to real-world water science through the River Watch program! Friends of the Minnesota Valley is seeking a volunteer to support scheduling and communication with local schools participating in hands-on water quality monitoring along the Minnesota River and its tributaries.

This role is a wonderful fit for a former teacher—especially a science or environmental educator—who wants to stay connected to education while supporting student learning and environmental stewardship.

What You’ll Do:

Communicate with teachers and schools to schedule River Watch sampling days

Coordinate calendars between schools, volunteers, and River Watch staff

Help confirm logistics such as dates, locations, and classroom needs

Serve as a friendly point of contact for educators with questions

Help ensure smooth, well-organized experiences for students and teachers

Ideal For:
Former teachers, retired educators, or education professionals who enjoy organization, communication, and supporting student learning. You do not need to lead field activities—this role focuses on scheduling and coordination support.

Skills:
Strong communication skills, comfort with email and calendars, attention to detail, and appreciation for hands-on science education. Familiarity with school schedules or classroom logistics is a plus.

Time Commitment:
2–5 hours per month, with some seasonal variation during the school year. Flexible schedule. Mostly remote, with optional in-person connection to River Watch events.

Additional Information:
Training and support are provided. This is a volunteer role that makes a direct, positive impact on youth education and water stewardship in the Minnesota River Valley.

Overview / Impact:
Friends of the Minnesota Valley is seeking thoughtful, community-minded volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors. Board members help guide the organization’s mission to protect, restore, and celebrate the Minnesota River Valley through strategic leadership, stewardship, and partnership-building.

Serving on the Board is a meaningful way to shape conservation outcomes, support environmental education, and strengthen a trusted voice for the river and its communities.

What You’ll Do:

Provide strategic guidance and oversight for the organization’s mission and programs

Participate in board meetings and key planning discussions

Support responsible governance, financial stewardship, and long-term sustainability

Serve as an ambassador for Friends of the Minnesota Valley within the community

Offer insight, connections, or expertise that strengthen the organization

Ideal For:
Individuals who care deeply about the Minnesota River, environmental protection, community engagement, or nonprofit leadership. Prior board experience is welcome but not required. We value diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and professional backgrounds.

Skills:
Strategic thinking, collaboration, good judgment, willingness to ask questions, and commitment to the mission. Experience in conservation, education, finance, communications, law, fundraising, or community leadership is helpful but not required.

Time Commitment:
Approximately 5–10 hours per month. Includes regular board meetings (typically monthly or bi-monthly) and occasional committee or event participation. Meetings are a mix of in-person and remote.

Additional Information:
Board service is a volunteer position. Orientation and support are provided to help new board members feel confident and prepared.