As spring arrives in Oregon, so does the community parade and festival season.

University of Oregon friends, students, staff, faculty members and alumni are invited to join in festival parades and volunteer at UO booths in communities across the state. The events are a way to recruit future students and highlight the university.

“These are great events for us to connect with our community,” said Matt Roberts, senior director of community relations.

This year the UO will be participating in the Pear Blossom Festival April 12-13 in Medford, Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade on June 8, Sisters Rodeo Parade on June 8, Pride Northwest June 15-16 in Portland, Good in the Hood June 21-23 in Portland and Fiesta Mexicana Aug. 2-4 in Woodburn.

“We are honored to participate in these longstanding community events and excited to meet with prospective Ducks and their families,” said Roger Thompson, vice president of student services and enrollment management.

The university is seeking volunteers to represent the university, walk or stroll in the parades, interact at booths and help in other ways. Volunteer sign-up is currently available online for the Pear Blossom Festival, Good in the Hood and Fiesta Mexicana.

“These events help build and strengthen bridges with Oregon communities,” Thompson said. “Not only that, but we’re able reach out to young students and their families to help illustrate how they can access higher education and its importance in positively affecting their futures.”