Volunteer with Us
Detroit Bird Alliance needs you!
For 85 years, volunteers have made Detroit Bird Alliance (formerly Detroit Audubon) what it is today. As a small regional nonprofit, we count on volunteers to help with our work, both behind the scenes and on the front lines. We welcome volunteers who are as passionate about our mission to protect birds as we are.
We are grateful for our volunteers, who give their time and talents in different ways but share a common mission. From habitat restoration and youth programs to leading field trips and event tabling, we offer a range of volunteer opportunities.
There are many ways to volunteer. Get started by reviewing this list:
Please take a few minutes to fill out our volunteer interest form so that we know more about you, and can direct you to the appropriate staff member. Or email us directly at hello@detroitbirdallinace.org.
Birding
Field Trip Leader and/or Co-Leader
Plan and lead outings that facilitate a positive outdoor experience, encourage stewardship of birds and the environment, and promote the mission of Detroit Bird Alliance. Field trip leaders should enjoy sharing nature with others and work to help others share their appreciation for birds and the environment we share.
Time commitment: varies depending on the number of field trips planned.
Family Field Trip Leader
Plan and lead outings that facilitate positive outdoor experiences, encourage stewardship of birds and the environment, and promote the mission of Detroit Bird Alliance. These walks are planned with children and families in mind.
Time commitment: 45 minutes to one hour per walk, number of walks vary.
Community Engagement Field Trip Leader
A field trip curated for a specific group. This is similar to a field trip leader as described above with the additional layer of incorporating any program goals the organization, school, or community group may have.
Time Commitment: generally 2 hours per trip, with additional time spent on planning.
Conservation & Science
Neighborhood Bird Survey Participant
Volunteers conduct bird surveys at multiple Detroit Bird City parks and enter information into an online database.:
Time commitment: 1.5-2 hours per month.
Bird Collision Monitors
Safe Flight bird collision monitors conduct daily surveys for dead and injured birds at pre-selected buildings during the spring and fall migratory seasons.
Time commitment: Seasonal with hours varying based on availability and location.
Education & Outreach
Community Engagement Volunteers
Community Engagement volunteers participate in various community events (trivia nights, Hawkfest, Earth Day events, etc.) to share the mission of Detroit Bird Alliance with the larger community.
Time commitment varies, depending upon the event and availability of volunteers.
Presentation/Speaker
Share Detroit Bird Alliance’s conservation message along with information about urban birds to various community groups requesting a speaker. (Groups include gardening clubs, senior centers, scout groups, libraries, etc.) Speaking engagements are usually 60-90 minutes each, located across six counties in Southeastern Michigan.
Time commitment varies, depending upon the event and availability of volunteers.
Flyway Writer, Editor, or Photographer
Write, or make our writing sing like a Song Sparrow, for our printed publication for members.
Skills desired: Writing, copyediting, layout.
Time commitment varies per project.
Online News & Stories Contributor
Got something to say about birds or our conservation mission? Write a piece for our website, reaching thousands per day.
Skills desired: Writing, critical thinking, enthusiasm for birds and/or conservation.
Administration
Science Data Entry
Volunteers input data collected via pen and paper into the online database.
Time commitment: 1-4 hours per month.
Social Media Support
Bird conservation influencers wanted! Share our mission, elevate our partnerships, and increase user engagement. Skills desired: Familiarity with Instagram, Facebook.
Time commitment: 1-2 hours per week.
New Member Phone Calls
Engage our new members with welcome phone calls. The phone calls are intended to thank and welcome new members, learn more about the new member’s reasons for joining Detroit Bird Alliance, and provide information about our organization as needed.
Time commitment: 1 hour per month.
Board & Committees
Board Member
Lead the organization as a member of the Board of Directors, The Board of Directors is responsible for strategy, oversight, and accountability. Skills Desired: Currently prioritizing legal expertise, bird conservation expertise, and human resources backgrounds.
Time commitment: 8-10 hours per month.
Fundraising/Development Committee
You can help grow our financial resources by providing your knowledge of fundraising activities, including donor stewardship, planned giving, corporate sponsorship, and more, as part of our committee.
Time commitment: 2-3 hours per month.
Sanctuary Committee Member
Skills desired: Special expertise in evaluating habitat projects.
Time Commitment: 10-20 hours per year.