Volunteer
Join the Roscoe Volunteers
Roscoe was full of life — busy streets, shared work, music, trade, and neighbors who knew one another by name. That sense of energy and belonging shaped the village.
Today, we are building that same kind of community.
The Roscoe Volunteers are volunteers who choose to carry forward the values of commerce, connection, and community in ways that enrich lives today — and have fun doing it.
When you join the Roscoe Volunteers, you don’t simply sign up for a role.
You become part of a living village.
Ways to Be Part of the Village
Youth Adventures Volunteers
Our Youth Adventures programs include school field trips, homeschool days, and summer camp experiences designed to immerse students in canal-era life.
We are building a rotating pool of volunteers to support these programs during our primary school seasons:
March through May
Late August through October
(Program days typically occur on weekday mornings.)
Volunteers may:
- Guide small student groups through hands-on activities
- Support interactive learning stations
- Assist educators with transitions and engagement
- Encourage curiosity and participation
- Wear period-inspired clothing when appropriate
No prior teaching experience is required. Training is provided before each program season so you feel confident and prepared.
Even one day during the season can make a meaningful impact.
You won’t just support a lesson — you’ll help shape how a child remembers Roscoe.
Costumed Community Presence
During Apple Butter Festival, Christmas Candlelighting, and other major programs, Roscoe becomes a fully immersive experience.
Volunteers may:
- Wear period-inspired attire
- Walk through the village engaging guests
- Greet visitors and pose for photos
- Help create an authentic historic atmosphere
You don’t need a long script — just a welcoming spirit and willingness to engage.
Village Interpreters & Hospitality
Share stories inside historic buildings, welcome visitors, and help guests connect canal-era life to today.
Garden & Village Décor
Support ornamental gardens, seasonal plantings, and holiday décor to keep Roscoe vibrant and inviting year-round.
Events & Behind-the-Scenes Support
Assist with logistics, preparation, administrative needs, and operational support that sustains the daily life of the village.
Just as in the canal era, vibrant places thrive because people participate.
Volunteer & Program Calendar
Spring (March – May)
Youth Adventures school programs (weekday mornings)
Summer (June – July)
Summer camps and family programming
Late Summer & Fall (Late August – October)
Youth Adventures school programs
Apple Butter Festival (high volunteer need)
Winter (November – December)
Christmas Candlelighting and holiday programming
Costumed presence and décor support
Not sure when you’re available? Let us know your general availability in the Interest Form, and we’ll connect you with opportunities that fit your schedule.
What You’ll Experience as a Roscoe Volunteer
It means:
- Laughing together during festival weekends
- Watching a child’s eyes light up during a school program
- Riding the canal boat with fellow volunteers on a summer evening
- Dressing in period attire and stepping into another century
- Learning something new about Ohio’s canal-era history
- Sharing stories, conversation, and connection
- You’ll help create memorable experiences for others — and for yourself.
- You’ll build friendships.
- You’ll gain knowledge.
- You’ll be part of something lively, meaningful, and uniquely Roscoe.
Volunteer Community & Appreciation
Roscoe Volunteers are part of an intentional volunteer community.
Throughout the year, we gather to celebrate, learn, and enjoy time together.
Early Summer Canal Boat Celebration
Following the completion of spring Youth Adventures programs, volunteers are invited to an evening reception and private canal boat experience — a chance to celebrate the season and connect on the very waterway that shaped this village.
Fall Ivy Room Gathering
After Apple Butter Festival and fall programming, we gather to reflect on the season, recognize contributions, and look ahead to the holidays.
Theatre & Learning Nights
Historic film screenings, guest speakers, and behind-the-scenes programs deepen knowledge and strengthen connection.
Towpath Walks & Informal Gatherings
Seasonal strolls, garden evenings, and casual meetups remind us that community is built in shared moments.
Begin Your Volunteer Journey
If you’re ready to be part of something energetic, meaningful, and rooted in place, we would love to start a conversation.
Complete our Volunteer Interest Form below for questions or tell us how you’d like to serve.