Unite with Nature and Community!

VOLUNTEER

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Volunteering with Partners for Environmental Justice

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Volunteering with Partners for Environmental Justice (PEJ) means joining a community of neighbors, advocates, and changemakers who believe that every creek, every green space, and every neighborhood deserves care. PEJ began right here in Southeast Raleigh through simple but powerful acts—community litter cleanups led by residents who refused to let their environment be overlooked. Today, that spirit continues as we work together to maintain green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), restore our waterways, and create healthier, more resilient communities. Whether it’s removing litter from a creek, tending a rain garden, or helping keep stormwater systems functioning as they were designed, every volunteer plays a vital role. Your time and energy directly protect water quality, reduce flooding, and strengthen environmental equity across our city. When you volunteer with PEJ, you’re not just helping the environment, you’re helping build a future where everyone has access to a clean, safe, and thriving outdoor world.

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Volunteer Opportunities

Litter Cleanups

GSI Management

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Project Specific

Interested in volunteering with us?

Explore upcoming opportunities and start making a difference today.

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GSI Volunteer Locations

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Biltmore Hills Community Center

2615 Fitzgerald Dr, Raleigh, NC 27610

Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park

715 Biggs Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603

Walnut Creek Wetland Park

950 Peterson St, Raleigh, NC 27610

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Past Events & Updates

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October 15, 2025
Description: Come join the Parks Green Stormwater Infrastructures (GSI) Crew and Partners for Environmental Justice (PEJ) at Dix Park as we plant plugs in the green stormwater infrastructure device. Learn about planting techniques and green stormwater infrastructure. What is GSI? It is a nature-based solution to manage and clean stormwater runoff. Green Stormwater Infrastructure preserves nature, soil, and waterways, and/or mimics nature by managing, treating, and reducing stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces, like roads, sidewalks, roofs, and driveways. Who is PEJ? Partners for Environmental Justice (PEJ) is a nonprofit organization based in Southeast Raleigh, North Carolina, dedicated to advancing environmental justice through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Founded in response to severe flooding in the Rochester Heights neighborhood after Hurricane Fran in 1996, PEJ has played a key role in restoring and protecting the Walnut Creek Wetland. The organization works to empower historically underserved communities by promoting urban wetland conservation, addressing environmental inequities, and fostering sustainable development. Through partnerships with local residents, scientists, and institutions, PEJ continues to advocate for a healthier, more resilient environment for all. Duties and Impact: Volunteers may use tools such as hand trowels, and shovels to install plant plugs in the designated areas. By volunteering, you will help to maintain on of Raleigh's green stormwater infrastructure devices and in turn help provide a greener more natural solution to stormwater management. Work Environment: Volunteers will be working outside in the elements. There is the possibility for uneven ground. There is a restroom on site at the Gipson Play Plaza. Requirements: Ages 15+ Signed digital Terms and Conditions or a paper release form. Those under 18 will need a parent/guardian signature Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing Wear fully enclosed sneakers or hiking boots Other Instructions: All training, tools and materials will be provided Bring your own filled water bottle and begin hydrating the day before Registered volunteers will receive additional information (such as parking and meeting locations) in their confirmation email Per department policy, this volunteer opportunity is not to be used towards court-appointed/ suggested community service hours. Date/Time: Sat, Oct 25, 2025 - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Spots Available: 19 Meeting Location: Dorothea Dix Park - Gipson Play Plaza 715 Biggs Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603 View Map / Get Directions Organizer: Rachel Van Noordt rachel.vannoordt@raleighnc.gov 919-996-4810 Category: Environmental Preservation / Gardening
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Reach out to learn more about visiting the wetlands or how you can support their continued restoration and preservation.

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