New Volunteer Opportunities

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 our Advisory Board Application and 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.

Mental Health Advisory Committee

Marion County is seeking individuals who are interested in improving our community's health through board leadership. Committee members will have unique knowledge, expertise, or personal experience in the area of community behavioral health program needs and services. Read more here. Use the Advisory Board Application to be considered for this advisory board. Members are appointed to 4 year terms, and will meet at least 10 times in a calendar year.

Local Alcohol & Drug Planning Committee

Marion County is seeking individuals who are interested in improving our community's health through board leadership. The Local Alcohol and Drug Planning Committee makes recommendations to the Marion County Mental Health Advisory Committee on matters related to alcoholism, alcohol and drug abuse, and drug addiction. The committee addresses education, treatment, prevention, rehabilitation, law enforcement, criminal justice and law reform. Find out more here.  Use the Advisory Board Application to be considered for this committee. Members are appointed to 4 year terms, and will meet at least 10 times in a calendar year.

Policy & Engagement Intern

The Policy & Engagement Intern will assist with 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 of Commissioners Office, interns will also learn local government systems, legal requirements of public bodies, and conduct research on various policy issues.

Interns will attend public meetings; research public policy issues as requested; draft articles for publication by Marion County; assist with meeting coordination; review and analyze documents, policies, local and state laws; and other tasks as requested. To be considered for this volunteer position, you should be a sophomore, junior, or senior in college, pursuing a political science degree. Find out more here. We are accepting applications for Summer and Fall 2022 terms. Submit your application 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. 

Environmental Services, Public Works Storm Drain Marking

Volunteers will learn about the storm water system in Marion County while installing storm water drain markers, and mapping their location. Interested individuals who are able to work independently, walk and stand for long periods of time, and use a caulking gun can apply here. In order to fill this volunteer position, applicants  must have the ability to pick up supplies at our Public Works location in Salem, and drive to various locations throughout Marion County.