Step into the prairie and help care for this wild place.
Our volunteers are the heart of Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Whether you can give a few hours a month or pitch in for a single event, there's a place for you on the prairie — supporting bison and elk habitat, welcoming visitors and school groups, and keeping this wild place thriving.
Why volunteer
Make a difference on the Kansas prairie.
Volunteering at Maxwell is a chance to give back, learn something new, and spend time outdoors with people who care about wildlife.
Protect wildlife & habitat
Help care for the bison and elk herds and the native tallgrass prairie they depend on.
Connect with your community
Meet people who love the outdoors and share a passion for conservation.
Share the refuge
Introduce visitors and families to the wonder of Kansas wildlife.
Build new skills
Gain hands-on experience in conservation, education, and visitor services.
Find the volunteer role that fits you.
Choose a role that fits your interests and schedule. Many volunteers help across several areas — and there is always a friendly hand nearby to show you the ropes.
- Visitor Services — greet guests, answer questions, hand out maps, and help in the gift shop.
- Tram Tours & Events — help with check-in, board passengers, coordinate parking, and keep events running smoothly.
- Education & School Programs — assist staff, set up learning stations, guide groups, and hand out materials.
- Prairie & Facility Projects — maintain trails and exhibits, help with seasonal planting, and pitch in on facility improvements.
How it works
Getting started is easy.
Four simple steps from interested to out on the prairie.
Share your interest
Fill out the volunteer form and tell us a little about yourself.
Chat with our team
We'll reach out to talk through roles, schedules, and your interests.
Orientation & training
Get to know the refuge and learn what you need for your role.
Start volunteering
Join the team and start making a difference on the prairie.
Bring your group to the prairie.
Churches, schools, service clubs, and businesses are all welcome to volunteer together on projects like trail cleanups, event support, and seasonal maintenance. Use the form below or email us and we’ll plan a project that fits your group.
- Churches & faith groups — spend a morning serving the prairie together on a hands-on project.
- Schools & youth groups — a meaningful outdoor service day that connects students to Kansas wildlife.
- Service clubs — take on a trail cleanup or seasonal project as a team.
- Businesses & teams — a rewarding team-building day supporting conservation close to home.
Questions
Volunteer FAQs
A few of the things people ask most often before they get started.
Do I need previous experience?
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Not at all. We provide orientation and training for every role, and there's always someone on hand to help.
Can I volunteer with a friend or family member?
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Yes — we'll do our best to schedule you together whenever possible.
How much time do I need to commit?
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It's flexible. Some volunteers help at a single event, others take regular shifts. We'll find something that fits your schedule.
Is volunteering outdoors?
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Many roles are outdoors and year-round, so dress for the season. We also have indoor roles in visitor services and education.
Can my group or organization volunteer together?
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Absolutely. Churches, schools, service clubs, and businesses are all welcome — reach out and we'll plan a project together.
Good to know
What we ask of volunteers.
No experience necessary
We'll teach you everything you need to know.
Enjoy people or the outdoors
A friendly attitude and a willingness to help go a long way.
Follow safety guidelines
We'll cover safety during orientation and training.
Be reliable
Show up for the shifts and events you commit to.
Dress for the weather
Volunteering is year-round and often outdoors.
Complete a short volunteer form
A simple agreement keeps everyone covered.
Get started
