History of Volunteers
As the River Parks began to take shape, public events were developed to draw citizens to the river. With the exception of the salary of one staff member, River Parks public events are financed solely with private sponsorship dollars, park usage fees and the income from beverage sales. Volunteers are enlisted to help facilitate these events. Our volunteer organization, "The Ratkateers," was formed in 1976 and has been an integral part of River Parks' success.

The Ratkateer Coordinating Committee assists in guiding, training, recruiting and scheduling volunteers to work in various capacities during River Parks public events. The Committee, consisting of the chairmen and co-chairmen of each volunteer area, works with the River Parks staff in the planning and execution of River Parks public events.

Ratkateers find that the social aspects of the organization are important also, as events and meetings are a time to renew old acquaintances and make new friends. The bottom line of being a Ratkateer is that you are helping River Parks. Because of our active volunteer force, River Parks doesn't have to spend limited funds to hire paid staff at events. The money which is saved stays in the park to maintain and expand the park system ensuring that most events are free to the public. So remember . . . when you volunteer in River Parks, you are supporting both the park and Tulsa.

Who Can be Involved?
Anyone 18 years or older who has a desire to help River Parks can volunteer. There is a separate organization, the Jr. Ratkateers, for people aged 12 to 18.

Once you notify us of your interest, you will receive the dates of our socials and sign-up parties. When you work an event, you will receive free admission into the event, complimentary beverages and other volunteer incentives that are available exclusively to Ratkateers.

What Areas Can I Volunteer For?
Beverage - These volunteers staff the booths that sell beer and soft drinks at events. These volunteers are especially important to River Parks since the proceeds from beverage sales help fund the Public Affairs Division.

Command Post - These volunteers serve as the "communications hub" during an event, checking out golf carts and radios, monitoring communications and answering the patrons' questions.

Electrical - These volunteers assist in on-site planning and implementation of the electrical needs for events. They work prior to, during and after each event stringing lights, helping with vendor placement and problem-solving general electrical issues.

I.D. - River Parks stresses responsibility in alcohol sales and consumption in compliance with Oklahoma liquor laws. I.D. volunteers are responsible for checking I.D.'s and wrist-banding all patrons who wish to purchase beer.

Jr.-Rats - We encourage the youth to participate in volunteering at River Parks. Volunteers aged 12 - 18 sell snacks and pop during our events. Volunteering for River Parks can be counted toward teens' community service hours required by many schools and clubs.

Logistics - These volunteers perform most of their work prior to and after the event. They assist in the set up and teardown of tents, temporary fencing, signage and beverage booths. They also have several "work sessions" per year where they construct or repair our equipment.

Product Supply - During our events, these volunteers work closely with our beverage suppliers. They ensure beverage stock is adequate and maintain accurate records of all materials needed for beverage operation during each event.

VIP - These volunteers ensure the VIP area for an event is clean, stocked and problem free. They serve beverages and interact with VIP patrons.

Volunteer Check-in -These volunteers ensure that each volunteer that is working the event signs a volunteer mission statement, receives proper entry credentials and directions to their designated work area.

Volunteer Hospitality - These volunteers take care of the volunteer force during our events. They cook food or serve complimentary beverages for the volunteers to enjoy after their shift of work is complete.

How Do I get involved?
You can download a form to send in that will place you in our database of volunteers. If you have any questions, please call the River Parks office for assistance.