Volunteering is a great way to build skills, meet people, and give back to the community all while having fun. We invite and encourage individuals and groups of all backgrounds and ages to get involved and help grow a stronger community.
ROC offers many types of volunteer opportunities throughout the year with varying levels of involvement and physical activity. Our volunteer opportunities include trail projects, fundraising events, festivals, group outings, clean-ups and more. We also have Trail Boss and River Steward programs for those who would like to take special interest in a certain section of trail or river.
If you or your group would like more information on volunteer opportunities you can contact our Outdoor Programs Director or our Trails Coordinator.
Starting on October 26th, 2023, we will begin holding information sessions to gauge interest and spread information about volunteering opportunities with ROC. Click here to RSVP for the October 26th session @5:30pm. You must sign up at least 24 hours in advance. Be quick: space is limited!
ROC in partnership with Town of Lake Lure and Rutherford County host an AmeriCorps position with CMLC’s Project Conserve. This is a National Service program in which members come from across the nation to dedicate themselves to serving western North Carolina for an 11 month service term. The program focuses on collaboration with nonprofit organizations, community groups and local governments to provide service throughout the region.
The Trails Coordinator is the main contact for volunteers to help with trail projects and group hikes. To get involved contact the Trails Coordinator. She can also be contacted by phone at 828-202-9811.
Maddie Bartosh is our AmeriCorps Trails and Education Coordinator for 2023-2024. She is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and she has always loved spending time outdoors and learning about the world around her. She recently graduated from Coastal Carolina University, earning a degree in Psychology with a minor in Biology. She is excited to explore her passion for conservation and outdoor recreation with ROC while serving her term!
As Trails and Education Coordinator, Maddie will be heavily involved with the maintenance, expansion, and increasing recreational use of Rutherford County trails, as well as providing environmental education opportunities locally. She will work alongside Rutherford Outdoor Coalition and the Town of Lake Lure to complete her duties and serve the county.
The goal of our Trail Boss and River Steward programs is to create a team of dedicated volunteer leaders that take special interest and ownership of our tail systems, protecting and preserving them for generations to come.
Our Trail Bosses and River Stewards get out on the trails and river on a regular basis and are asked to report any issues, assist with minor maintenance, and help to keep their sections clean.
If you are interested in becoming a Trail Boss or River Steward please contact our Trails Coordinator.
Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Always tuck rain gear into your backpack and bring along layers of clothes.
