Volunteer Opportunities
We have so many ways to get involved and contribute the well-being of our community. Whatever you do, the changing climate will take increasing consideration in the activities of all groups.
See below for a list of ways to volunteer and let us know if you have anything to add.
Germantown Together
Germantown Together is a group of volunteers committed to serving our community's specific needs. This action group was initiated in response to Covid-19 anticipating an increased need at our local food bank. Since its inception, Germantown Together has evolved into a centralized place for community members to ask for the specific support they need from their neighbors, such as assistance during severe weather.
Germantown Food Pantry
As extreme weather increases, so too will food insecurity. Our local food pantry is available for all Columbia County Residents, no questions asked. Please contact Arlene if you are interested in volunteering or accessing this program at 518-965-2330. Click below for more information about making donations and other pantry information. The pantry is open on Wednesdays from 1-5 if it could be helpful to you or you to it.
Town Committees
All town committees will need to consider climate concerns in their work. These committees include the Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Waterfront Advisory Committee, Economic Development Committee, Short-term Rental Committee, Parsonage and History Committee, Local Waterfront Revitalization Committee. The town usually appoints committee membership once a year, but meetings are open to the public year-round. You can find a list of committees, including our own, on the town website under Government and the meeting dates and zoom info on the Calendar. So come have a listen and learn how you can share your talent to enhance your town.
Roe Jan Watershed Community
The RJWC monitors and enhances the Roeliff Jansen Kill, an important tributary of the Hudson River. The Roe Jan flows through the Columbia County towns of Hillsdale, Copake, Ancram, Gallatin, Clermont, Livingston, and Germantown. The Shekomeko Creek, one of the Roe Jan’s larger tributaries, flows through Pine Plains in Dutchess County.
Fire Department
The Germantown fire department was founded in 1908 as a volunteer-based organization. This all volunteer service is busier than ever providing mutual aide to surrounding communities as well as taking care of us. They have observed that longer drier springs have increased brush fires all over the region. Visit their website for more information about becoming a volunteer firefighter for the town.
River Cleanup Efforts
For 25 years now, residents have come together one Spring morning to pull trash out of the river from Lasher Park to Cheviot Park. Join us in helping to keep our river clean. Learn more and sign up below. The town also organizes an annual Invasive Water Chestnut Removal event in June. If you are interested in joining for that particular event, please email GermantownWaterfrontCommittee@gmail.com.
Library Programs
Our library has several opportunities to get involved. Join a library committee: Budget & Finance, Buildings & Grounds, Communications & Engagement, Grant Writing & Fundraising, Policies & Bylaws, Programming & Makerspace, Technology. Email Katrina at events@germantownlibrary.org if you are interested in volunteering for a specific program.
Germantown Parks Commission
Our Germantown Parks Commission focuses on community building, recreational programming, education and foundational improvements. It collaborates with the town government, many committees, the library, and history department. Events include the 2019 Palatine Pumpkin Party and Witch Walk and the 2020 Holiday Glow, as well programming around the Halloween Parade, Holiday Stroll, Summer Movie Nights and other town events.