Volunteer
Volunteers grow community!
Volunteering at Yew Dell is a great way to meet new people and develop new skills in a beautiful setting. Whatever your skills or experience, we have a project that could use your talent. Training and materials are provided for all positions. Stay up to date with the volunteer program by signing up for the monthly Volunteer eNews at the bottom of this page!
Reattendance of orientation is required if two years have lapsed since one’s last volunteer date with Yew Dell.
Our goal is to empower all volunteers to contribute to the mission of Yew Dell while providing a rewarding and engaging experience where all contributions are valued and appreciated.
Volunteer Opportunities
Click the tab to learn more about each opportunity.
Looking to get involved? You’re in the right place! Join us for a Volunteer Orientation session to learn about all the volunteer opportunities Yew Dell has to offer and how to join our team!
After completing the Registration Form using the button below, you will receive an email with a link to choose your orientation date.
If you enjoy the outdoors and plants, we want you to join our team – whether beginner gardener or expert! If you want to help with a diverse range of projects, working closely with our staff, this is the opportunity for you! Needs on the grounds change seasonally, but may include specialized tasks such as pruning, plant cut back, plantings, trail work, and weeding.
Orientation Required
A tradition at Yew Dell since 2002, this opportunity allows you to get a taste of volunteering with Yew Dell. Meet our staff and other volunteers, get your hands dirty, and have a great time! Tasks may include weeding, mulching, planting, invasive removal, and more. Woodland Workdays occur monthly. Individuals, families, scouts, and groups welcome.
Orientation not required
Seasonal Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers will assist guests with transporting their plants from the Plant Market to check out to their vehicle, then return wagons to the plant market. Volunteers assist guests with Work alongside staff to answer questions about Yew Dell Memberships and general Yew Dell information. Volunteers for this shift must be well-versed in the aforementioned information.
Orientation Required for Information Booth position.
Volunteer Spotlight
We are thrilled to recognize Dianne Bynum in this month’s volunteer spotlight! Dianne joined our volunteer team in Fall 2023 and dove right into any opportunity she could. From signing up weekly for workdays to joining our Fairy Forest Committee, Dianne has certainly made an impact on Yew Dell and our mission. Always with a smile on her face and a willingness to try anything, Dianne is a gem to work with. Thank YEW, Dianne!
Learn more about Dianne below.
How did you first get involved with Yew Dell?
Yew Dell has always been one of my favorite places to visit. The first time I visited I came to see the hummingbird banding years ago. When I retired last year I had an opportunity to volunteer and it’s a wonderful opportunity to be a part of this beautiful place.
What surprised you the most about volunteering at Yew Dell?
I love the staff! Everyone is so kind and knowledgeable. I feel very welcome and appreciated.
What has been your favorite experience at Yew Dell?
Yuletide at Yew Dell was so much fun. I enjoyed making the natural decorations. The garden was so pretty. All of the children were so excited to see the lights and Santa! That was a fun experience.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I’m running the KDF mini marathon this year. I run with a group of friends and we call ourselves the “Turtles”. I’ll let you figure out why! We enjoy running 5k’s and mini marathons.
What would you say to someone interested in volunteering at Yew Dell?
I would say it’s a wonderful opportunity to be a part of something special. Yew Dell has a wonderful history and it’s nice to be a small part of that.
Other Volunteer Opportunities
Administrative
Opportunities
Nursery
Volunteers
Volunteer
Photography
Docent
Program
Fairy
Volunteers
Woodland
Trails
Are you interested in one of the opportunities above? Contact us using the button below for more information!
Volunteer FAQs
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No! We take volunteers of all skill levels and you will certainly learn while working in the gardens.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
What do I need to bring?
Yew Dell encourages volunteers to bring their own gloves, though we do have a small stash for those that don’t bring their own (though these may contain latex). We also encourage volunteers to bring water, a snack, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, or other items you may need for comfort while working outside. Closed-toed shoes are a requirement for all volunteering opportunities. You will receive an email before each shift with any additional notes related to your specific shift.
How old must you be to volunteer at Yew Dell?
Whether you are seeking service opportunities with your family, your church group, your youth organization, your school or simply on your own, we are excited to work with you to match you with appropriate activities that provide a fun and meaningful experience for you.
- Volunteers who are ages 7-13 must have direct parent/guardian supervision.
- Volunteers ages 14-17 may volunteer independently with a signed waiver.
- Click here for more information.
Can I bring a group to volunteer?
Absolutely! If you are looking for a fun way for employees, church groups, classes, or other organizations to get involved as a group, we offer many exciting opportunities for small to large groups. Contact us using the button above to learn about current opportunities.
How do I cancel a volunteer shift I've signed up for?
You can either email us using the button above or cancel using SignUp.com (the same way you signed up). To do this, you can click on the opportunity link you used to sign up, and delete your shift there.
When is Yew Dell's volunteer season?
The majority of our volunteer opportunities occur between March and mid-December.
I'm interestedi n volunteering, but the shift is too long. Can I still join?
Absolutely! We understand that some volunteer shifts may be too long depending on the individual. Volunteers are not required to volunteer until the end of the time slot, but we request that all be present at the beginning and communicate with us if they need to leave early.
Connect with Us
Click the icon below to visit our Yew Dell Volunteers Facebook Group. Join for even more updates, stories, and fun!