5 Ways for Families to Volunteer in Erie This Weekend

National Volunteer Week (April 20–26) is here — which means it’s the perfect excuse to ditch the screens, get outside, and do something awesome as a family.

Because let’s be real: Our kids don’t always jump up to clean their rooms… but they will pick up trash at Presque Isle if it means stomping through the sand and calling it "volunteering." 🙃

We’ve rounded up 5 family-friendly volunteer events happening THIS WEEKEND — all right here in Erie. Whether you’re planting flowers, packing donations, or just showing up with a smile and some sneakers, these are easy ways to pitch in and make a difference (and maybe grab a donut after).

1. 🧽 Spring Clean-Up at Presque Isle State Park

📍 Meet at Beach 6 Pavilion | 🕘 Saturday, April 26 at 8:00 AM

Team up with DCNR Park Rangers to help pick up litter and prep the park for a busy season. Volunteers of all ages are welcome — and it’s a beautiful way to enjoy the outdoors with purpose.

➡️ More info here.

2. 🧩 24th Annual Walk for Autism at Lake Erie Speedway

📍 Lake Erie Speedway | 🕘 Saturday, April 26 at 9:30 AM

Join this fun, inclusive event to raise awareness and support for local autism programs. It’s a great opportunity to walk, connect, and make a difference as a family.

➡️ More info here.

3. 🌱 Spring Community Workday in Downtown Erie

📍 140 E. 5th St | 🕘 Saturday, April 26 at 9:00 AM

Hosted by the Erie Downtown Partnership and Gannon University, this clean-up event focuses on beautifying sidewalks and public spaces downtown. Supplies are provided — just wear work clothes and bring that family teamwork energy!

➡️ More info here. 

4. 👕 Global Youth Service Day at East Middle School

📍 1001 Atkins St | 🕘 Saturday, April 26 from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

This event includes a youth talent showcase and vendor fair — but families are asked to bring clothing donations for Erie’s City Mission. 

➡️ More info here.

5. 🪦 Adopt an Urn at Erie Cemetery

📍 Erie Cemetery | 🕘 Sunday, April 27 at 1 p.m.

Give a little TLC to Erie’s history by planting flowers and tidying urns at the cemetery. Families can “adopt” an urn and return throughout the season to care for it — a lovely tradition to start. There is a kickoff event Saturday.

➡️ More info here.

💬 Want more ways to get involved as a family? Subscribe to Macaroni KID Erie for local events, freebies, and fun ideas in your inbox every week!

Know of an organization with volunteer opportunities for kids and families? We'd love to hear about it! Email karam@macaronikid.com with details.