Starting this season, all garden volunteers are asked to use our new online signup form before heading out to the garden.
Opportunities to volunteer in the garden are available for all ages and depend on the growing season.
When Can I Volunteer in the Garden?
- The garden welcomes volunteers from generally late February-early November.
- Garden work days are scheduled (weather permitting) on Saturdays from 9 -11:30 a.m
- Additional limited help is needed on Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. for harvesting. Contact garden@hsfoodcupboard.org if interested.
- Please use this online signup form to save your space to volunteer on any “Open Work Day” on the monthly schedule. “Closed” days are reserved for only previously scheduled large groups.
- General Saturday morning work days will be held unless it is raining or muddy, or if there is a threat of storms.
- Show up when you can and work as long as you desire.
- During winter, occasional opportunities to volunteer in the garden will be available for individuals and families.
How Do I Sign Up to Volunteer in the Garden?
- New for the 2026 growing season: Garden volunteers must register for a time to work in the garden.
- By registering for a specific day and time slot on the monthly schedule, you help ensure that we have the right amount of work and supervision ready for every pair of hands. Whether you are a longtime green thumb or a first-time helper, please reserve your spot on an open work day.
How Can My Group Reserve a Workday?
- We welcome all larger groups (clubs, businesses, religious, scouts, schools, etc.) to schedule a “work day”.
- Groups are generally limited to 15 participants and may work for 1-2 hours.
- Groups with youth under 14 must be accompanied by adult supervision.
- For reservations please contact: garden@hsfoodcupboard.org
Can I Receive Credit Hours for Working in the Garden?
- Yes, students and others seeking credit hours can volunteer and earn credit.
- Please bring the sponsoring school or organizational form (completed) for our final signature.
- Students should register as a group for a “reserved” work day.
- For reservations please contact: garden@hsfoodcupboard.org
What Should I Bring?
- If it’s your first time volunteering in the garden, please print and complete this volunteer agreement form and bring it with you.
- There’s no need to bring tools.
- Water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and gloves may be helpful.
- Please, if possible, consider bringing a small food donation to the Cupboard to help fill our empty shelves. Check out what’s needed.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?
- All ages are welcome to volunteer in the garden.
- Volunteers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Instructions will be given to volunteers, but on-site supervision generally will not be provided.
How Can I Get More Information?
- Garden volunteers who desire to be periodically updated on garden conditions, schedules, and opportunities may sign up for an occasional e-mail update.
- Please send a name and e-mail address requesting placement on the “Garden Update” list to: garden@hsfoodcupboard.org.
- For questions or more information, please email garden@hsfoodcupboard.org.
