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Save Wildlife

Neighbors For Nature Houston

Saving Animals In The Wild Starts Right Here In Houston

Each month, the Houston Zoo invites guests and community members to take part in hands-on saving-wildlife activities that help restore the outdoor places our community loves. These opportunities are designed to be simple, meaningful, and open to everyone; no experience is required. 

Inspired by Umuganda, a monthly community service tradition in Rwanda practiced by our saving-wildlife partners, these events take place on the last Saturday of each month. 

Registration is now open for our June and July Neighbors for Nature event.

Register at the form below.

What You Can Expect

Participants will spend a few hours working alongside Zoo staff and local wildlife-saving partners on projects both at the Zoo and in our community that help create wildlife-friendly spaces, such as: 

  • Planting native plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife 
  • Removing litter from beaches, bays, and bayous that harm local wild spaces and the animals that call them home 

Activities are family-friendly, accessible, and designed so that every effort makes a difference for communities and local wildlife. We’ll provide guidance, tools, and support. You just bring your love for wildlife and willingness to help. 

By taking action, you’re doing your part to save animals in the wild, here in Houston and beyond.

Sign up for June and July

Interested in future opportunities? Join our interest list to stay informed

About Umuganda

Neighbors for Nature was inspired by Umuganda, a monthly community service tradition in Rwanda practiced by our saving-wildlife partners. These events take place on the last Saturday of each month, when communities come together to complete projects that strengthen neighborhoods and support the greater good. 

Umuganda means “coming together in common purpose” in Kinyarwanda, the official language of Rwanda. It reflects a shared belief that even small actions, done together, can create meaningful and lasting change.

Neighbors for Nature FAQs

Can I bring my family and friends?

Yes, as long as you have registered them, they are welcome to attend.  

Is there an age limit?

No, but parents are asked to supervise their children for the entire duration of the event.  

What happens if it rains?

If the rain is light, the event will continue as planned. If severe weather is forecasted, Houston Zoo staff will reach out to all participants to let them know what the next steps are at least 24 hours prior to the event start time. 

Do I need to complete a waiver?

Yes. All participants must complete the Houston Zoo Saving Wildlife Opportunity Program Waiver and Release of Liability Survey prior to participating. 

Complete waiver

What should I wear?

Please dress for the weather and outdoor work. Long pants, long socks that cover your ankles, and closedtoed shoes are requiredPlease wear clothing you do not mind getting dirty. 

What should I bring?

Participants are encouraged to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and a filled reusable water bottle. 

What supplies will be provided?

Houston Zoo will provide the supplies and tools necessary for the event.

Neighbors for Nature Volunteer Opportunities FAQ

Can I earn volunteer hours or community service hours through Neighbors for Nature Houston?

Yes. Neighbors for Nature Houston events can be used for volunteer hours, service hours, or community service hours in Houston for many schools, clubs, workplaces, and organizations. Participants are responsible for confirming their organization’s requirements before attending. Houston Zoo staff can verify attendance after the event if documentation is needed.

Are these good volunteer opportunities for students in Houston?

Yes. Neighbors for Nature Houston offers hands-on student volunteer opportunities for those looking to complete community service hours while helping local wildlife and outdoor spaces. Activities may include litter cleanups, native plantings, and other conservation projects in the Houston area.

Can high school students earn service hours at Houston Zoo conservation events?

Yes. High school students are welcome to participate in Neighbors for Nature Houston events and may use the time toward high school service hours if approved by their school. We regularly partner with schools in the Houston, Cypress-Fairbanks, Katy, Fort Bend, and Conroe Independent School Districts, and private school students are welcome as well. A parent or guardian should register and supervise younger participants as needed.

Can Scouts, school clubs, honor societies, or youth groups volunteer together?

Yes. Scout troops, school clubs, National Honor Society groups, church youth groups, and other service organizations are welcome to register for Neighbors for Nature Houston events. Each participant must be registered in advance, and youth participants should be supervised by their group leaders or parents.

Are Neighbors for Nature events family-friendly volunteer opportunities in Houston?

Yes. Neighbors for Nature Houston events are designed to be family-friendly and open to all ages. Children are welcome to participate with parent or guardian supervision for the entire event. We regularly host families from Cypress, Katy, Pearland, The Woodlands, and more at our events, and we’d be happy to host yours! 

What kind of community service work will volunteers do?

Volunteer activities vary by event, but may include planting native plants, removing litter from beaches, bays, and bayous, restoring wildlife-friendly spaces, or supporting other hands-on conservation projects in the Houston area. 

Do I need prior volunteer experience?

No experience is required. Houston Zoo staff and local conservation partners will provide guidance, tools, and support so volunteers know what to do when they arrive. 

Does the Houston Zoo offer weekend volunteer opportunities in Houston?

Yes. Neighbors for Nature Houston events take place on the last Saturday of each month, making them a good option for people looking for weekend volunteer opportunities, Saturday service hours, or community service work in the Houston area.

Can I get a service hour verification form signed?

Yes. If you need proof of volunteer or community service hours, please bring your required service hour form with you to the event. Houston Zoo staff can verify attendance and time served after you complete the event. 

Can corporate groups volunteer with Neighbors for Nature Houston?

Yes. Corporate groups looking for volunteer opportunities in Houston are welcome to participate in Neighbors for Nature Houston events. Groups should register in advance so Houston Zoo staff can plan appropriately for attendance, supplies, and event needs. 

Can my organization bring a large volunteer group?

Yes. Schools, companies, clubs, and community organizations may register groups for Neighbors for Nature Houston events. For large groups, please contact wildlifeconservation@houstonzoo.org before registering so staff can confirm capacity and event fit.

Questions?

If you have any questions for our Wildlife Conservation team, please email wildlifeconservation@houstonzoo.org or call 713-533-6611.