Youth-Led Service Projects

We offer a range of award-level projects that can be completed within our organization and maintain a running list of available projects to choose from. Proposals for new projects are welcome, but must be feasible and align with our programs' priorities.

Our experienced staff will provide you guidance as you select and plan your project, but we count on you to lead it. Youth volunteers are expected to plan and coordinate their projects, leaning on the support of their advisors and parent/guardians only when needed.

To get started, review the abbreviated list of available projects and guidelines included below.

If you don’t see a project that interests you, consider what types of projects interest you and how they align with our mission.

After sharing your interest with staff via our Youth Leadership Interest Form, you will:

  1. Work with staff to select a project that aligns with our existing programs and needs.
  2. Consult with our staff to refine your project plan and receive guidance.
  3. Coordinate with staf to schedule project implementation and logistics.
  4. Execute your project with staff support and supervision.
  5. Provide GBF with photos and planning documents for your project.

Projects by Property Location

Trinity Bay Discovery Center in Beach City, TX

  • Build a kayak shed to store equipment.
  • Build quality benches (10) for an outdoor education classroom.
  • Fix/update/repaint outdoor changing rooms.
  • Fall ‘25 tree planting (24 trees, 15-gallon sized) - funding may be available.
  • Debris clean-up along shoreline.
  • Painting the well house, Education Center/House.
  • Trail work in forest.
  • Help build new bridge to the island.

Turtle Bayou in Anahuac, TX

  • Widen trails by lopping vegetation along a semi-cleared path 3 miles in length.
  • Install trash receptacle(s) next to angler site and parking areas (some GBF funding available).
  • Trash cleanup on Anahuac Lake levee and Turtle Bayou angler site (winter only).
  • Stain 1 bird viewing platform.
  • Debris clean-up in parking lot.
  • Repair fence in parking area.
  • Stain fence in parking areas.
  • Clean interpretive signage.
  • Remove vegetation near signage.

Sweetwater Preserve, Galveston, TX

  • Large shade structure over picnic tables – needs to be cemented in.
    • *AttributionBtn_f1b85319-c614-43d5-b077-beec5fe3c70f*
  • Larger privacy structure that is more accessible.

Texas City Preserve, Texas City, TX

  • Invasive species removal of Chinese tallow using hand saws and loppers (Fall/Winter/Spring activity).

Chocolate Bay Preserve, Hitchcock, TX

  • Trash clean-up on intercoastal waterway – large marine debris, need to rent a roll-off dumpster during dry conditions.

GBF HQ, Kemah, TX

  • Construct/purchase a solar pump that pumps water to pollinator garden using existing rain barrels (GBF funding available).
  • Construct shade structure adjacent to aquatic nursery and surface ground around it.
    • *AttributionBtn_a5cfaec1-10ff-4c66-ae0c-fea542477987*

Youth Leader Guidelines

  • Meeting Etiquette & Staff Availability: Volunteers should be mindful that staff members have other responsibilities and obligations outside of your project. Schedule meetings in advance, preferably during business hours.
  • Timelines and Progression: Once the project is approved, a reasonable timeline will be established. Adhere to this timeline and communicate any delays or changes promptly.
  • Respectful Communication: Communicate with staff in a respectful and professional manner. Respond to emails or phone calls promptly and courteously.
  • Safety & Leave No Trace: Follow safety protocols provided by staff and practice "Leave No Trace" to minimize environmental impact.
  • Waiver & Coordination: Ensure all volunteers sign a GBF service waiver and coordinate volunteer registration through the private portal.