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FAQs about Volunteering
Who can Volunteer and When?
Everyone! Individuals, families, businesses, community clubs, church groups, and youth organizations all contribute to the success of Madison Area Food Pantry Gardens. We need help every week of the growing season, beginning in April through a final fall harvest typically in October.
** Community members are welcome in the garden during any open work session noted on the garden calendar. **
Have a group that wants to volunteer?
Contact Us - we can usually make special arrangements!
Is there an age requirement?
Nope, younger children are great at watering transplants, planting seeds and even harvesting.
I don't have a green thumb. Can I still help?
Absolutely! No gardening experience is necessary as on-the-job training and supervision are provided at each open work session.
Do I need to bring any supplies with me?
All necessary gardening equipment and supplies are provided. We do encourage you to bring water, bug spray and sunscreen though. Wearing sturdy shoes is also recommended.
When do you need volunteers?
We need help every week of the growing season, beginning in April through a final fall harvest typically in October. Community members are welcome in the garden during any open work session noted on the garden calendar.
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers are needed to help plant, weed and harvest in all of our gardens.
Is there any commitment that must be made to volunteer?
No, we garden on a "come as you're able and leave as you must" basis. Whether you can join us for one session this summer or we see you weekly, we gladly welcome you to our gardens during any open work session.
What is an open work session?
This is the term we use to describe when the gardens are open to the public for volunteering. Different gardens host open work sessions on different days and times, so be sure to check the calendar.
It's my first time volunteering, what do I need to bring?
New volunteers should complete the online volunteer waiver prior to their first volunteer session.
Additional Information:
While public health emergency orders related to COVID-19 have been lifted, we will continue to maintain a safe and comfortable setting for all of our volunteers to experience. To accomplish this we ask all garden volunteers to abide by the following practices:
Those volunteers who are experiencing symptoms of any physical illness should not volunteer.
Wash hands before coming and when leaving the garden.
Please be mindful of others and their personal space.
Masking is accepted and welcome for those who choose to do so.
Volunteers are to bring sturdy shoes and appropriate dress for the weather.
