Title
Updates: Volunteer in Parks (VIP) Program Update
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FileID
File ID: 2026-00478
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Location
Location: Citywide
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Recommendation
Recommendation: Review and discuss.
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Contact
Contact: Shannon Brown, Assistant Director, (916) 808-6076, sdbrown@cityofsacramento.org, Department of Youth, Parks, and Community Enrichment
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Attachments
Attachments:
1-Description/Analysis
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Description/Analysis
IssueDetail
Issue Detail: The Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program is the department's structured approach to engaging community members in the care, activation, and stewardship of Sacramento's parks. VIP was established to help us move beyond one-off volunteer events and toward a more intentionally sustainable volunteer model that supports staff capacity while strengthening community ownership of public spaces.
The program creates clear pathways for individuals, families, community groups, and partners to participate in park-based volunteer opportunities, including park cleanups, tree planting, beautification projects, and ongoing site stewardship. By formalizing these pathways, VIP improves its consistency, communication, and the overall volunteer experience.
VIP Program Goals (Established December 2024)
1. Increase accessibility to volunteer opportunities by simplifying the sign-up and registration process.
2. Create a roadmap and toolbox to support staff in providing volunteers with a consistent and positive experience.
3. Increase VIP outreach and visibility in the community to develop and foster long-term relationships.
Program Infrastructure Update
To support these goals, the department is transitioning volunteer registration and management from ActiveNet to Better Impact. This change is intended to improve volunteer communication, tracking, reporting, and overall ease of participation for both volunteers and staff.
Defining VIP Volunteer Opportunities
1. Parks-Based Volunteer Opportunities (in partnership with YPCE, City Coun...
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