Volunteers in Action

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Hannah Ditgen
Community Services
Senior Management Asst.
VIA Program Manager
hditgen@hursttx.gov

VIA: Volunteers in Action The City of Hurst Volunteers-In-Action (VIA) Program has been an integral part of City government operations for over 45 years. It is the first municipal volunteer program to be recognized by the state of Texas. The Citywide volunteer force is a valuable resource that provides each City department with a viable alternative when addressing future staffing needs. Since the beginning of the program in 1979, the VIA volunteers have provided more than 650,000 hours totaling nearly $11.5 million in services to the Hurst community. We currently have more than 125 active volunteers providing services to our great City in many different departments and 10 groups that work on special projects throughout the year.

Watch this historical news clip to see how the Volunteers in Action program began in the City of Hurst!

VIA Mission and Vision

Our mission is to harness the power of volunteerism to strengthen the fabric of the Hurst community by providing opportunities for residents to actively participate in initiatives that enhance services, enrich community life, and alleviate burdens on municipal resources. Through collaboration, innovation, and dedication, we aim to create a resilient and thriving community where every individual's contribution is valued and celebrated.

Our vision is to cultivate a community built on connection, where every resident is empowered to actively engage in shaping the future of Hurst through volunteerism. By embodying the Hurst Way, we strive to foster a vibrant and inclusive environment where collaboration thrives and collective contributions enhance the well-being of all.

Volunteer Positions

Approximately 125 volunteers currently donate their time on a regular basis in departments such as Animal Services, the Library, Police and Fire, and the Senior Activities Center. Many people find the social interaction they receive by volunteering to be uplifting and energizing. Others prefer an opportunity to work alone, enjoying helping staff out on a more “solo” type project. Whatever your preferences, we think you will be able to find a suitable volunteer position here in the City. We currently have several positions to choose from, encompassing all skill levels.

How to Become a Volunteer

If you are interested in volunteering, please review the areas of service and job descriptions before completing the online application. A VIA representative will then contact you about volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer Recognition

The City of Hurst recognizes its volunteers in several ways. The hours worked by each volunteer are recorded and volunteers receive recognition for their service. Every April in conjunction with the National Volunteer Appreciation Week, the City of Hurst hosts its Volunteer Appreciation event to celebrate and recognize our volunteers’ efforts.

Volunteers in Action 2023 Brunch attendees

Also, held every spring is the Blue Jacket Ceremony. Once volunteers have reached the 200 hour milestone, they receive a VIA Blue Jacket. The Blue Jacket recipients are presented with a jacket by a City Council member at one of the City Council meetings.

Volunteers in Action Blue Jacket recipients with City Council 2023

In addition to these events and awards, each department may recognize volunteers in their own way. We love our volunteers and want to show them how much we care!

Thank you for considering joining our community of dedicated volunteers. Your time and effort make a real difference in helping us achieve our mission.