Frequently Asked Questions

• Does Pinellas County meet the requirements of the Bright Futures Scholarship program?
  Yes.  The Volunteer Services department assists in placing volunteers fulfilling Bright Futures Scholarship requirements.  Students develop their own projects, get approval from the Bright Futures Scholarship program, and we assist in helping to implement the planned activity.  The project must have a county-associated application.  Please visit the Bright Futures Scholarship program’s website for more information.

• Does Pinellas County have volunteer opportunities to help feed the needy?
  Pinellas County does not originate programs that feed the needy directly. However, if your group would like to help, please call us at (727) 464-VIPS (8477).

• Where can I volunteer?
  Pinellas County has many different opportunities located in every area of the county.  View listings of opportunities available either by interest or location.

• Is there a background check?
  Every volunteer that is asked to attend an orientation will be required to complete a background check and then is fingerprinted and photographed for an identification card during the orientation process.

• Does Pinellas County place court-ordered community service volunteers?
  Yes. Pinellas County participates in the Day Reporting Program with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.

• Will you train me?
  We will seek a good match where you will use the skills and abilities you are bringing with you. Some volunteer positions however, such as the Auxiliary Park Ranger, require training before we send you out into the field. Other positions, such as Receptionist, require some orientation, but not necessarily training.

• What are the benefits? Are there perks?
  Volunteers tell us that the work is rewarding in and of itself. And there are other benefits such as keeping up-to-date on your skills, adding volunteer projects to your portfolio and/or resume, staying “connected” while transitioning from one job to the next, feeling a sense of community, meeting new people and making friends, helping to meet the needs of the less fortunate in our community, and more.

  Pinellas County also offers our VIPs access to the Wellness Center in downtown Clearwater and membership in the Pinellas County Federal Credit Union, should you choose it. You are eligible for training courses offered to County employees. There are other perks in the works – check with your Volunteer Site Coordinator for an update every now and then.

• I have a suggestion.
  And we’d love to here it! Let your Volunteer Site Coordinator know what you think. Or you can always contact us at Volunteer Services administration at 464-VIPS (8477) or email us.

• How much time does it take?
  That depends on you, the Volunteer Site Coordinator and on your assignment. Some VIPs volunteer for one event and some have scheduled hours on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.

• Do I need a special clearance?
  Depending on the assignment, most volunteers will go through a background check and be fingerprinted.

• Am I covered by county insurance?
  Volunteers may be eligible for workers’ compensation medical benefits only, in accordance with chapter 440, Florida Statutes. If an injury occurs, the Volunteer Site Coordinator must be notified immediately. The Volunteer Site Coordinator will direct the volunteer to a facility to receive prompt medical attention. For questions regarding Workers’ Compensation, contact the Risk Management staff at 464-3664.

• How do I apply? What’s the process like?
  Complete the application online. This is the quickest way to get started. We’ll let you know we received your application and forward it to the department(s) in which we think you’ll enjoy working. The Volunteer Site Coordinator from the department will then contact you to talk about a match. You’ll need to attend an Orientation, plus your supervisor will orient you to your department and duties. For more information on this, go to “What Happens After I Apply?”

• My group would like to volunteer for an event. Who do we contact? How do we apply?
  What a great way to build friendships or to build a team!  Call Volunteer Services at 464-VIPS (8477) or email for more information on how to sign up.

• How do I find volunteer opportunities for Pinellas County Government?
  Review our list of currently available positions. You may also to talk to the people who currently work or volunteer at the facility that interests you.