Volunteering at
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

Becoming a Steward

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer steward with McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. As a steward, you will be rewarded with educational opportunities, new friendships, and the opportunity to give back. To become a steward, start with the first two steps below. Our team will be in touch with you to guide you through the rest.

You’re joining a great organization serving a great cause, and soon you’ll be working with others who share your passion in our mission. Steward classes are generally held the second Saturday, September through March. Please begin your application process and we will contact you shortly.

Please read the Volunteering Opportunities page before you begin the application. This section explains what you can get out of being a volunteer, and what our expectations are of you.

Every applicant must submit an orientation fee of $75 and “The Conservancy Steward Application.” You will be asked to create a Username and Password before completing the application. This Username/Password combination will remain throughout your time with the Conservancy. You must register and complete the Conservancy’s online application below before proceeding to Step 3.

PAY YOUR FEE HERE

CONSERVANCY'S ONLINE APPLICATION

Because stewards are also volunteers for the City of Scottsdale (COS), a City of Scottsdale Volunteer Application is also required. Yes, both of these applications are required. The COS uses this to complete a background check. After the COS receives your application, you will receive a secure web link where you will enter your private information.

  • Download and save the COS Application. You must download the application before you can fill it out.

CITY OF SCOTTSDALE VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

Volunteer Coordinator
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
15300 North 90th St., Suite 400
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 998-7971

  • Please submit your orientation fee at least two weeks prior to the class date to reserve a spot.
  • For questions about the application process, please call our office, 480-998-7791, (X100).

To guide you through the badging process, mentors and program representatives will provide a support system. You will be assigned a mentor who will reach out to you prior to Stewardship 101. They will schedule an initial call or meeting to get to know you and offer insights to stewardship before you attend orientation.

After Stewardship 101, your mentor will help you set a plan to earn your steward badge. They’ll be available to guide you as you explore various program orientation sessions, take the required classes, and learn about the many exciting opportunities available to you as a steward. 

S101 is fun! It's also a comprehensive and exciting orientation that teaches you about the Conservancy, the Preserve, and how to earn your steward badge. In addition to all you will learn, you will have lunch with existing stewards who can answer any questions you may have.

Once you complete S101, you’re on your way to becoming a steward. There are a variety of other self-paced requirements that generally take between 20 and 25 hours to complete. These include required training (online and in person) and experience with Conservancy activities. 

When you are finished, congratulations, you’ll receive your badge and have all the benefits and responsibilities of being a steward in the Conservancy.

Looking for a Different Level of Commitment?

We understand the demands on time and schedules, and being a steward may not fit into your plans at this time. Our community volunteers offer a different level of commitment.

Looking to Volunteer with your Company or Organization?

Check out our Corporate Support Page for more information on volunteering with a group!

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Support the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

The threats to our natural world have never been greater. It is only with the support of dedicated Arizona conservationists that we can protect the Sonoran Desert for future generations.

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