Volunteers contribute millions in service value to Scottsdale in 2025

Staff Reports | Volunteer Zone

Citizen volunteers continued to support city operations across Scottsdale in 2025, contributing time and service to programs and departments throughout the year.

A total of 4,695 volunteers donated 129,109 hours of service last year, according to a press release.

Using the Independent Sector’s value of volunteer time for Arizona, estimated at $33.70 per hour, the contribution represents more than $4.3 million in community value, roughly equivalent to 62 full-time employees, the release states.

In addition to measurable service hours, volunteers provide community insight, ideas and feedback that help inform how city services are delivered, supporting responsiveness to resident needs and priorities.

The Adopt-a-Road program recorded the highest volunteer participation in 2025, engaging 1,930 volunteers. The program helps reduce litter along Scottsdale roadways and allows residents, organizations and community groups to adopt designated road segments or take part in one-time cleanups.

Volunteers also contributed to the operation of the Scottsdale Food Bank, providing regular weekly support as well as assistance during one-time and periodic service opportunities. Their efforts help ensure food resources are distributed efficiently to residents in need.

At Scottsdale Public Library, teen volunteers continued to support operations through school-year and summer programs. Teen participation remains particularly important to the library’s Summer Reading Challenge, which encourages residents of all ages to read and earn prizes by meeting reading goals.

“Scottsdale’s volunteer program gives people meaningful ways to connect with and contribute to their community,” Scottsdale Volunteer Coordinator Brandon Chapman said. “In turn, volunteers play a vital role in helping the city deliver essential services, creating a lasting cycle of care, partnership and giving.”