Volunteerism plays an important role here at Marion County, helping to build our relationship with citizens while building our capacity to deliver important services and supports. We are fortunate as we benefit from a community committed to civic engagement, and many volunteers make significant contribution in time, energy and expertise.
Marion County offers a wide variety of program and event volunteer opportunities, as well as opportunities to serve on an advisory boards, committee or task force. Opportunities vary by department, and by the time of the year.
Advisory Boards
North Santiam Watershed Council
Marion County is seeking individuals interested in serving on the North Santiam Watershed Council (NSWC) as the Marion County representative. The NSWC is a group of community volunteers who act together to help restore the North Santiam Watershed so that it can support the natural habitat of endangered Salmon and steelhead, and continue to support the economy and quality of life of communities within the watershed. NSWC board members are appointed to 3-year terms, and generally meet monthly January through November.
NSWC Directors must live in, or derive economic benefit from the watershed and demonstrate a commitment to the geographic and natural resource interests of Marion County. The NSWC promotes awareness and education about watershed issues, preserves and/or improves water quality and quantity in the river and stream networks, and works to protect natural areas including wildlife and biodiversity. Visit
https://northsantiam.org/ for more information on the Council and their work.
Read a detailed description of the board position here.
To be considered for appointment to this position complete and sign ourAdvisory Board Application.pdfand return to volunteer@co.marion.or.us. Completed applications may also be submitted my mail to Marion County Volunteer Services, PO Box 14500, Suite 4250, Salem, Oregon 97309.
Planning Committee
Help plan for growth and development within the county. When you join the Marion County Planning Committee you help to shape land use policies, review subdivision applications, amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and zoning ordinances, and assist the Board of Commissioners in developing long-range land use plans for Marion County. Planning Commission members are appointed to 4-year terms, must be 18 years of age, and reside in Marion County. Membership should represent a balance of geographic areas and a variety of interests. To maintain geographic representation, preference will be give for persons living in the St. Parul, Macleay/Turner, Sayton or Santiam Canyon area. Use the Advisory Board Application to be considered for a position with the Planning Commission. Find out more about their work
here.
Solid Waste Management Advisory Council
Marion County is recruiting for five open positions on the Solid Waste Management Advisory Council (SWMAC). SWMAC is a sixteen-member advisory council that makes recommendations on waste reduction and disposal policy issues. The Council is made up of citizens-at-large (50%) and businesses and industry representatives (50%). Members meet once per month (4th Tuesday) in a formal setting to discuss policies on how to reduce both waste flow and toxicity in our county. Members must be 18 years of age, and must live or work in Marion County to be eligible for these positions. SWMAC members appointed to 4-year terms. We are currently recruiting for four citizen-at-large positions, and one business/industry position representing a Chamber of Commerce. Individuals affiliated as a member or staff of a local chamber are eligible for the chamber position. Use the 
Advisory Board Application to be considered for a position with SWMAC. Find out more about Marion County Solid Waste Management Advisory Council here.
Program Volunteers
Policy & Engagement Intern
The Policy & Engagement Intern with the Board of Commissioners Office will assist with analyzing local government public policy issues, helping to promote public engagement and collaboration with residents, businesses, and other government agencies. As an intern with the Board's Office, interns will also learn local government systems, and research on various policy issues.
Interns will attend public meetings; assist in researching public policy issues as requested; assist with meeting preparation and coordination; and assist with other tasks as requested. To be considered for this volunteer position you should be a junior or senior in college, pursuing a degree in business, history, or other similar major. Find out more
here. Submit your application
here.
