This volunteer training provides an overview of the most popular points of interest in the display gardens (Gaffield Children's Garden, Gateway Garden, etc), an introduction to the Visitor Engagement department, best practices for working with the public, and beyond.We seek volunteers with a love of learning and interest in working with a diverse population of visitors, including children and families. Continuing education garden tours/talks are led by our horticulturists throughout the season. Shifts are available daily, May–October. Questions before committing? Please…

Ambassadors greet and guide visitors to points of interest in the peony garden, the largest public collection of heirloom herbaceous peony cultivars in North America, during peak bloom time. The training session includes an overview of the peony collection history, horticultural basics and tips for working with the public. Training held at Nichols Arboretum in the Reader Center (1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor).Ideal volunteers will have a genuine interest in the collection and an ability to work independently with a…

Prescribed fire is a tool we use to restore and maintain natural areas at Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum (MBGNA), and is an essential part of the oak-hickory forests, oak savannas, and prairie ecosystems. This process enables us to re-establish and protect these ecosystems as well as the many species that inhabit them. For thousands of years, Native American burning created fire dependent ecosystems that rely on frequent fires to maintain their plant communities and open character.The training will…

If you have an interest in educating our guests about the conservatory while also helping us monitor guest behavior, this opportunity is for you! What better place to be during the winter than the conservatory? This is a Nov.-March role. A required training is set for the morning of Sat, Oct 12th. All new volunteers are required to attend and also fill out a new volunteer application. Click on the button below to pre-register for training.  

Do you have a passion for inspiring children to be environmental stewards through hands-on interaction with plants and nature? Docents lead guided interpretive programs for school and youth groups, assist in the development of educational materials, and with special event workshops.Being a docent is an amazing volunteer experience but does require a 2-year minimum commitment and availability during  weekday mornings to lead the programs. In exchange for your time, we provide ample training, continuing education programs, and other unique opportunities.Review…

PLEASE NOTE: This program has been canceled. We seek volunteers with a love of learning and interest in working with a diverse population of visitors, including children and families. Continuing education garden tours and trainings are led by our horticulturists throughout the season. Shifts are variable based on the specific Ambassador program. May-October time frame is typical however. Click the volunteer job titles below for full PDF descriptions.Gaffield Children’s Garden Ambassador (NEW!): Training on Sat, April 18th (8am-12pm)* at Matthaei Botanical…