Should we bring food?

You may bring snack food and beverages. However, we expect you to carry out all trash that you bring in.

What does Gaining Ground provide?

We provide water and tools as well as tables, benches, a bathroom, and hand-washing sink. We also have a bag of assorted gloves that never seem to fit or match!

What should we wear?

We recommend wearing temperature-appropriate clothes that can get dirty and a hat and sunblock for skin protection. If the forecast calls for rain, please bring rain jackets and shoes or boots for the mud! Further information is provided in our Volunteer Releases, Preparation and Directions document.

How old do you need to be to volunteer?

Minimum age for unaccompanied volunteers is 15 (occasionally 14, if in high school). Children 5 and older are welcome if accompanied by parents or other adults to supervise them.

Who volunteers?

We welcome groups and individuals of all abilities to volunteer in the fields. Generally, a combination of groups and individuals are helping at any given time. Group leaders are expected to support the farm staff in leadership of their groups. Further information is provided in our Volunteer Releases, Preparation and Directions document. In addition, this is […]

How long do volunteers work?

Volunteers in the field are invited to help for two hours either in the morning or afternoon. Many volunteers choose to come several times during the growing season to see the results of their work.

What’s the work in the field like?

Every day is different, but working at the farm is fun, physical work that our volunteers find rewarding and interesting. No gardening experience is needed. Further information is provided in our Volunteer Releases, Preparation and Directions document.

How do I volunteer at Gaining Ground?

If you would like to volunteer on the farm between April and October, we suggest you review our Volunteer Guidelines and then sign up for specific sessions using our online form. Our staff will follow up with your request and confirm a date and time, generally within three business days during the growing season. Occasionally we need help on […]

When is Gaining Ground open?

From April through October, we work with volunteers to accomplish a variety of farm tasks. We welcome individual and group volunteers Wednesday through Saturday, between 10am and 3:15pm. Our office is normally open Tuesday through Friday during business hours.