Become a GBF Dedicated Volunteer
Galveston Bay is the heartbeat of Texas, and since 1987, the steady commitment of volunteers have echoed in rhythm with its waters. Their service has driven Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) forward, inspired by a shared passion: to preserve and enhance Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come
Volunteers are a core part of how GBF protects and restores Galveston Bay. GBF Dedicated Volunteers bring consistency, skills, and long-term commitment to projects that require more than one-time participation.
This pathway is designed for adult volunteers (ages 18+) who are interested in deeper involvement and commitment towards protecting the Bay.
Youth interested in volunteering with GBF can find more information on our Youth Leadership & Service page.
You will be part of a committed community
Dedicated Volunteers often work closely with program staff and fellow volunteers, becoming part of a committed community working toward shared goals.
You will develop skills and gain experience
Many Dedicated Volunteer roles offer opportunities to develop or apply specialized skills, gain hands-on experience, and deepen your understanding of coastal conservation.
You will be a committed steward
Longer-term involvement allows volunteers to see projects through over time and contribute to lasting results.
What to Expect
Volunteering at GBF may involve specialized tasks or longer-term commitments, including customer service, formal and informal interpretation (such as supporting tours and helping with outreach), community-science projects, and supporting events and programs.
As you continue volunteering, additional behind-the-scenes and in-depth learning opportunities may become available.
For program-specific roles (e.g., dolphin surveys), applicants are encouraged to review role qualifications and participation requirements to understand what to expect. We’ve included role descriptions below for positions that are currently accepting applications.
Application and Communication
All interested individuals are encouraged to review the available opportunities and apply using the Dedicated Volunteer track link below.
During the application process, you will be asked to:
- Share relevant experience or interests
- Provide references and general availability
- Respond to role-specific questions
- Review and acknowledge qualifications or expectations
Your application responses help GBF learn more about your interests and skills and explore where they may be a good fit.
Some applicants may be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator for next steps, which may include an interview and screening information.
Screening and Matching
GBF staff take time to review each application to learn about your interests and experience, and to help make thoughtful matches based on current opportunities.
Dedicated Volunteering includes a background screening to help ensure a safe and supportive environment. Applicants will be asked to consent to a background check completed through a verified third-party vendor such as Sterling Volunteer.
Applicants are kindly asked to cover the cost of their background check as a donation to Galveston Bay Foundation. Financial assistance is available upon request, and no applicant will be excluded due to inability to pay.
Volunteers affiliated with a GBF partner may have this requirement waived upon confirmation of an equivalent screening.
Submitting an application does not guarantee placement in a role. During your interview with the Volunteer Manager, you’ll have a chance to talk together about whether the GBF Dedicated Volunteer role is a good fit.
Orientation and Training
All volunteers will complete an in-person orientation with the Volunteer Coordinator and any specialized training required by your program of interest. This orientation is an opportunity to chart your journey as a GBF Dedicated Volunteer and ask questions about support from GBF staff.
Available Roles
Detailed descriptions of individual roles, expectations, and qualifications are provided in separate PDF role descriptions, which are linked below.
- Oyster Restoration Support Volunteer↗
- Operations Support Volunteer↗
- Prairie Garden Support Volunteer (opens April 2026)
- Seawolf Dolphin Research and Outreach Station Volunteer (opens April 2026)
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you are ready to become a GBF Dedicated Volunteer and help protect Galveston Bay for generations to come, click the button below to login and begin the application track. If you have volunteered with us before, log in to load your profile and save you some time.
