Some of Brownsburg’s favorite parks and events wouldn’t be the same without volunteers. From Christmas Under the Stars to the annual Brownsburg Farmers Market, community members lend their time and talents to make these experiences possible. Even Blast Off Playground at Williams Park, where so many childhood memories are made, was built and painted thanks to hundreds of volunteers.

Each year, the Town of Brownsburg Parks Department sees hundreds of volunteers help with projects big and small. A simple sign-up process through the volunteer portal makes it easy for the department to share opportunities and track hours.

Recreation Coordinator Riley Kuhns played a key role in streamlining that process. When she transitioned roles within the Parks Department in 2023, she cleaned up the volunteer sign-up system and helped introduce new software to streamline the process. Volunteers can now choose from three categories: events, land stewardship, or group projects, and receive alerts as new opportunities arise.

“I try to make volunteering specific to each person,” Kuhns said. “I like to build relationships and get to know their interests and skills.”

That personal connection is one of her favorite parts of the job, and what drew her to volunteer coordination in the first place. Growing up with a heart for giving back, Kuhns enjoys staying engaged with community members and serving as a face for Brownsburg’s volunteer opportunities.

She works closely with the Brownsburg Lions Club, Brownsburg Kiwanis, and high school clubs that need community service hours, sharing updates on park projects and other needs.

As Brownsburg grows, so does the need for volunteers.

“A lot of our events wouldn’t be as successful without our volunteers,” Kuhns said. “The Farmers Market would look very different. The Father-Daughter Dance and Christmas Under the Stars are big events that rely on their help. Our work in Weed Wranglers also makes a huge impact on controlling invasive species.”

Their impact is measurable. Last year, 134 volunteers contributed more than 1,000 hours, and in 2024, 193 volunteers gave over 1,300 hours. Combined, that’s more than $80,000 worth of time and effort. Yet the personal reward is just as meaningful.

“You can tell when they’re having fun,” Kuhns said. “Whether it’s clearing weeds or serving popcorn at a dance, the feeling of lending a hand is its own reward.”

Learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities at brownsburgparks.com