CONNECT PEOPLE TO THE WATER
Make a Difference
on the Waterfront
Whether you have maritime experience or simply want to give back, there is a place for you at The WaterFront Center.
LEND A HAND. SHARE A SKILL. BUILD COMMUNITY.
There is a way for everyone to help.
Volunteers help care for our vessels, support youth and education programs, welcome guests, assist at special events, participate in community science, and preserve Oyster Bay’s maritime heritage. Opportunities may be one-time, seasonal, or ongoing—and many roles require no prior boating experience.
FIND YOUR PLACE
Ways to Volunteer
Choose the opportunity that best matches your interests, experience, and availability.
Vessel Crew
Support public sails, education programs, and special trips aboard CHRISTEEN and IDA MAY.
Boat & Facility Care
Help with painting, seasonal preparation, light maintenance, equipment care, and waterfront cleanup.
Youth & Education
Assist our team as young people explore marine science, sailing, and hands-on learning.
Sailing Programs
Qualified volunteers may support Learn to Sail, adaptive sailing, veterans programs, and other on-water activities.
Regattas & Events
Help with registration, race committee, guest hospitality, event setup, breakdown, and community celebrations.
Community Service Hours
Students and young volunteers can give back, build skills, and earn documented community service hours through approved WFC opportunities.
FOR STUDENTS & YOUNG VOLUNTEERS
Earn Community Service Hours
The WaterFront Center welcomes students who want to make a difference while completing community service requirements. Approved volunteer opportunities may include supporting waterfront projects, helping care for equipment, assisting with events, and participating in environmental stewardship activities.
Opportunities are based on current needs, the volunteer’s age and abilities, and staff availability. Contact us before beginning service so our team can approve the opportunity and explain how hours will be recorded.
Ask About Community Service HoursVOLUNTEER TOGETHER
Join Our Scientific Community
Give back to the waters we call home while learning about the wildlife and habitats of Oyster Bay and Cold Spring Harbor.
01
Horseshoe Crab Conservation
The WaterFront Center is a horseshoe crab survey site. Volunteers walk local beaches during evening high tides to count, measure, and tag horseshoe crabs found on Beekman and Theodore Roosevelt beaches.
Email to Join →
02
Community Shellfish Gardening
Help raise oysters that support the continued health of Oyster Bay and Cold Spring Harbor. Volunteers assist with cleaning cages, sorting oysters, and learning about the oyster life cycle.
A small support fee may apply to programs that include building cages or other materials.
Email to Join →PRESERVE OYSTER BAY’S MARITIME HERITAGE
Join the CHRISTEEN and IDA MAY Volunteer Crew
Volunteers have always been central to the story of our historic vessels. CHRISTEEN, built in 1883, was restored and continues to be cared for through volunteer dedication. IDA MAY was completed after more than 33,000 volunteer hours and now serves as a classroom on the water.
Today, members of the 1883 Society help care for these vessels and share Oyster Bay’s maritime history with the community.
Join the Volunteer CrewGOOD TO KNOW
What to Expect
All experience levels are welcome. Many roles require no boating experience.
Choose a commitment that works for you. Opportunities may be one-time, seasonal, or ongoing.
We will help you get started. Instructions and role-specific training are provided.
Requirements vary by role. Age requirements, background screening, and SafeSport certification may apply.
READY TO GET INVOLVED?
Become a WFC Volunteer
Download our fillable volunteer application, complete and save it, then email the finished PDF to our team. We will review your interests and availability and help connect you with the right opportunity.
Download
Open the fillable PDF.
Complete & Save
Fill in the application and save a copy.
Email It
Attach the completed PDF and send it to WFC.
Important: Your email program will open, but the PDF cannot attach automatically. Please attach your saved application before sending.
Application information is kept confidential. Volunteer placement is based on current needs, qualifications, availability, and applicable screening or certification requirements.