In Memphis, everyone wants to be part of event season. 🎪✨ From festivals and garden parties to neighborhood traditions and family-friendly competitions, you can be invited to all of them… they all are powered by volunteers. 💪
If you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at Memphis events, or just a more meaningful way to spend your weekend, volunteering is your best bet. Here are a few ways to plug in this May. 🔽
Lakeland Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, May 2 | 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.
This classic community event brings kids and families together for a morning on the water, and volunteers help keep the excitement going. From monitoring fishing zones and signaling catches to helping with setup and prize distribution, there’s something to jump into. This is a great way to spend a spring morning surrounded by energy, laughter, and a little friendly competition.
Petals and Parasols at MBG
Sunday, May 3 | 12 to 5:30 p.m.
Florals, fresh air, and a touch of Regency-era charm. This garden party transforms the Memphis Botanic Garden into an elegant, interactive experience where guests create crafts like fascinators, sachets, and decorative fans. Volunteers help guide those activities, assist with guest flow, and support VIP areas, all while being part of a stunning event. If you enjoy creative environments and connecting with people, this one’s hard to beat.
Junior Achievement’s Future Leaders Pilot
Wednesday, May 7 | 8:15 a.m. – 1:45 p.m
JA in a Day is a one-day volunteer-led program. No experience needed! You’ll provide the economic-based JA curriculum utilizing interactive games and activities to demonstrate the relevance between what students are learning in school and the real world. We will also welcome JA USA to observe our Future Leaders Pilot—a program we are uniquely proud of as we build the teacher pipeline. This visit is an opportunity to showcase what is possible when schools, students, and community volunteers come together.
Art for All Festival at the Dixon
Saturday, May 9 | Multiple Shifts Available
Art for All brings together organizations and artists from across Memphis for a day dedicated to creativity and community. Volunteers help visitors of all ages engage with hands-on art activities, making the experience welcoming and accessible. No art background required, just a willingness to encourage participation and keep things running smoothly.
Cooper-Young Garden Walk
Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17
Some of Memphis’ most beautiful spaces are tucked just out of sight, and this event gives the public a rare chance to explore them. Volunteers are stationed at private gardens throughout the neighborhood, greeting guests and helping manage entry. This is a laid-back role with a front-row view of stunning landscapes, plus the chance to connect with fellow plant lovers and curious visitors alike.
Rox Garden Day
Saturdays in May | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
There’s something grounding about working in a garden, especially when it’s part of a larger community effort. Volunteers can help build and maintain garden beds at Memphis Rox, contributing to a space that promotes wellness, connection, and access to fresh food.
Orion Free Concert Series at the Overton Park Shell
Weekends in May | Multiple Shifts Available
Music brings Memphis together, and volunteers help make that happen. From greeting guests to supporting event logistics, you’ll play a role in keeping this iconic concert series accessible and welcoming for everyone, while enjoying the soundtrack of the city.
Get in on the action this May
Attending events is fun. Being part of them? That’s where things really get interesting.
Memphis shows up for its events, and volunteers are a big reason why. đź‘Ź This May, consider trading a spectator pass for a volunteer badge and see the city from a new angle.
👉Ready to find your spot? Visit Volunteer Odyssey’s full calendar.Â
Our mission is to amplify the voices of our nonprofit partners, recruit volunteers, support our partners with best practices in volunteer management, and provide quality, transparent data of the positive hours of service and community impact.
