Volunteerism is a vital resource in Manhattan Beach. Volunteers allow the City to augment its workforce by enhancing the provision of services to the community, while minimizing expenditures. Residents who volunteer with the City not only help provide a richer quality of life for their community but they learn the intricacies of how a municipal government operates.

Each volunteer contributes unique skills to his or her assignment. This experience may also contribute to individual development and personal fulfillment as they enhance or learn job skills. High School and College students who participate in the City's volunteer internship programs receive valuable on-the-job work experience which expands their course of study and increases the chances of procuring employment after graduation.