Volunteering

Volunteering with the federal government offers Americans meaningful ways to support national priorities, from preserving public lands to contributing to scientific research and emergency response. Whether you are a student gaining career experience, a professional sharing expertise, or a community member passionate about service, federal agencies provide a variety of volunteer opportunities tailored to different skills and interests. Understanding why Americans serve and the value of public service can inspire and guide your involvement.

Types of Federal Volunteer Opportunities

Federal volunteer roles range from short-term projects to longer-term assignments and include student internships, citizen science programs, and specialized positions. Agencies such as the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, and Commerce Department welcome volunteers for field work, research, and community engagement. For example, becoming a certified weather spotter supports critical national weather data collection and demonstrates how volunteers contribute to important government missions (steps to becoming a certified weather spotter).

Getting Started with Federal Volunteering

You can find federal volunteer opportunities through Volunteer.gov, which connects volunteers with thousands of roles across agencies by location and interest. To begin, contact the Human Resources office of your preferred agency, visit your school’s career counseling center, or explore individual agency websites for specific postings. Many departments, including Defense, Commerce, Interior, and Health and Human Services, have active volunteer programs that welcome a wide range of skills and backgrounds.