Group Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers representing community, corporate, and college groups contribute over 3,000 hours of service every year! Group service projects at the Arb and Gardens are a great way for members to team build, enjoy fresh air and exercise in a beautiful natural setting, and work together toward a common goal. Our staff provides education and training about the work at hand and explains how volunteer efforts support our mission and programs.
Tell Me More!
See what upcoming dates we have available for volunteer eco-workdays
Community Eco-Restoration Workdays
We now require all individuals to sign-up for the eco-workday rather than just show up. This assists us with staff, tools, resources, and most importantly safety throughout the ongoing covid transitions. Thanks for understanding.
Help preserve our native ecosystems by joining us for bi-monthly public stewardship eco-workday events at the Nichols Arboretum location and Matthaei Botanical Gardens location. Please see our group sign-up form for dates and pre-registration. Activities often include the removal of non-native, invasive plants. Fall/winter work involves the use of loppers and hand saws as well as cutting, dragging, and piling brush. Spring/early summer work primarily involves hand weeding.
Private Workday Options
Groups are welcome to coordinate a private workday at the Arb and Gardens during the week or weekend. Preferred times are 9 am–noon or 1–4 pm. Activities may include natural areas restoration, display garden maintenance, and other special projects. Availability is highly dependent on staff availability and projects, so we encourage reaching out one month or more in advance to discuss. We do require a minimum of 15-20 volunteers to schedule a private workday. Some exceptions can be made depending on the season and type of work.
What to Wear?
-Dress for comfort and safety.
-Wear layers and use sun protection, hats, etc.
-Study close-toed shoes are required in all settings.
-Long pants are strongly suggested when working in natural areas to protect against potentially poisonous plants and wildlife.
-Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottle.
What about minors?
Volunteers under age 18 must request and submit a Youth Permission Form (PDF) prior to participation. Volunteers under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult for all activities. Not all volunteer activities are suitable for younger volunteers—even with adult supervision.