Get Involved
The DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Department offers a variety of ways for residents, organizations, and community partners to get involved and support local parks, programs, and facilities.
From volunteering and partnerships to advisory boards and special events, these opportunities encourage public participation and help strengthen recreational spaces across the county. Community involvement plays a vital role in enhancing quality of life and ensuring DeKalb’s parks and recreation services continue to serve residents of all ages and interests.
Volunteer Opportunities
The DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs (RPCA) Department offers meaningful volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, and groups who want to support local parks, programs, and cultural initiatives. Volunteers play an important role in enhancing community spaces, supporting youth and cultural programming, and helping maintain parks and facilities across the county.
Current Volunteer Opportunities include:
Park Clean-Up Days
Volunteers assist with beautification efforts such as litter removal, trail clearing, mulching, and planting.
When: First Saturday of each month
Where: Rotating park locations throughout DeKalb County
Ideal for: Individuals, families, school groups, and civic organizations
Youth Sports Support
Volunteers help staff during youth sports practices and games with set-up, check-in, equipment support, and participant engagement.
When: Weekday afternoons and Saturdays
Where: Recreation centers and sports fields
Requirements: Ages 16 and older; background check required for adult volunteers
Arts, Cultural, and Amphitheatre Events
Volunteers support festivals, workshops, concerts, and cultural events through event set-up, ticketing, and hospitality assistance.
When: Evenings and weekends
Where: Various event locations
Skills: Friendly, dependable, and service-oriented
Nature and Environmental Programs
Opportunities are available at locations such as Arabia Mountain, nature centers, and select parks, supporting outdoor and environmental initiatives.
Preferred skills: Interest in environmental stewardship and outdoor activities
How to Get Started
- Complete the Volunteer Application
- Sign the Volunteer Waiver
- Attend a brief orientation (virtual or in person)
- Begin volunteering
Questions or Additional Information
For more information about volunteer opportunities, contact:
Leslie Pennington
Email: lnpennington@dekalbcountyga.gov
Phone: 404-371-2711
Friends of the Park Groups
Friends of the Park Groups include Arabia Mountain, Chapel Hill, Exchange, Mason Mill, Wade Walker, and many others.
For more information about Friends of the Park Groups, visit Park Pride.
Benefits:
- Access to Park Pride grants
- Fiscal Partners Program
- Park Toolshed access
- Organized volunteer workdays
Citizens Advisory Board
The DeKalb County Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs Citizens Advisory Board is an 11-member board appointed by local government and community leaders. The board provides guidance on programs, facilities, and services, helping the department enhance leisure and recreational opportunities for all DeKalb County residents.
The DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Citizens Advisory board meets on the fourth Tuesday bi-monthly.
**All meetings are open to the public**
2026 Meeting Calendar:
- January 27, 2026: Fire Rescue Headquarters
- March 24, 2026: Arabia Mountain Nature Center
- May 26, 2026: Mystery Valley Golf Course
- July 28, 2026: Lucious Sanders Recreation Center
- September 22, 2026: DeKalb Community Achievement Center
- November 17, 2026: Hamilton Recreation Center
All meetings begin at 6:00 PM
Board Members
Board Member: Vacant
Appointed By: CEO
Term Expires:
Board Member: Chris S. Hester
Appointed By: Commissioner Robert Patrick, District 1
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028
Board Member: Sally Sears
Appointed By: Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, District 2
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028
Board Member: Vacant
Appointed By: Commissioner Nicole Massiah, District 3
Term Expires:
Board Member: Kevin Polite
Appointed By: Commissioner Chakira Johnson, District 4
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028
Board Member: Dennis Allen
Appointed By: Commissioner Mereda Davis-Johnson, District 5
Term
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028
Board Member: Christina Rios
Appointed By: Commissioner Edward "Ted" Terry, District 6
Term
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028
Board Member: Victoria Anglin
Appointed By: Commissioner LaDena Bolton, District 7
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2026
Board Member: Josceyln O'Neil
Appointed By: DeKalb Legislative Delegation
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028
Board Member: Whitney McGinniss
Appointed By: DeKalb County School Board
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2026
Board Member: Melanie Hammet
Appointed By: DeKalb Municipal Association
Term Expires: Dec. 31, 2028