Become a Volunteer

Volunteers are essential to the mission of Reeves-Reed Arboretum and are one of the greatest strengths of our organization.  They provide vital support in the gardens and make special events and festivals possible.  Our diverse volunteer network includes students, retirees, avid gardeners, teachers, nature lovers, corporate groups, those looking to volunteer for a few hours, and those looking to volunteer on a regular basis.

So please join us!  Enjoy the beauty of the Arboretum and the camaraderie of being a part of a committed community of Arboretum volunteers!

NEW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY! WOODLAND RESTORATION:  Come help restore the woodlands. Volunteers will reestablish existing trails, plant native trees, identify and remove invasives, as well as other tasks. No experience necessary. Dress appropriately (boots, long sleeves, pants) and bring a refillable water bottle. Join Daniel on Fridays from 9:30 am until 12:30 pm for this very important project!  Question/concerns? Please email t.cassin@reeves-reedarboretum.org.

FESTIVAL OF TREES – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  Join us on Sunday, December 11 for our annual outdoor Festival of Trees, a Multicultural Celebration of the Holidays. Volunteers are needed to help with set up, crafts, activities and more! Shifts are from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 3:30pm.  Volunteers should be 14+ years old.  Please email t.cassin@reeves-reedarboretum to register.

VOLUNTEERING CAN PUT YOU IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT!  Join us this November and December as we get the Arboretum ready for the holiday season. We will be decorating and crafting unique centerpieces, wreaths and more! There are dates for holiday prep and holiday decorating. We have more than 20 festive shifts available - morning, afternoon and evening - so there’s sure to be a time that fits your schedule. Come join the fun! Registration is required. You can register below or by emailing t.cassin@reeves-reedarboretum.org.  

HANDS TO NATURE DOCENTS NEEDED: Hands to Nature is one of the Arboretum’s longest running programs.  It is offered free-of-charge to 2nd and 3rd grade school children in urban communities. We provide the children with a light breakfast, followed by science-based nature lessons led by docents, animal themed entertainment, and a pizza lunch. Docents are needed Fridays in October and November from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. Adults interested in learning more about becoming a Hands to Nature Docent should email t.cassin@reeves-reedarboretum.org.

SEASONAL POSITIONS AND INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE!  For seasonal internships, as well as other employment opportunities, please click here.

VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:  We value your time, expertise, and dedication! Volunteers over the age of 18 and completing 12 hours of volunteer service receive an Individual Level Membership.

QUESTIONS? Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Trish Cassin at t.cassin@reeves-reedarboretum.org or 908-273-8787 x1616.

Ground Force

Autumn Ground Force is back! Join our horticulture staff working outdoors in the spring, fall, summer and now winter, to maintain and enhance the beauty of our gardens and grounds. Weather permitting and keeping in mind current COVID guidelines, join the Horticulture Department outdoors or in the greenhouse. Registration is required in case of cancellations. Tasks may include greenhouse maintenance, including re-potting and pot sanitation and propagation, as well as removing weather-related damage.

Volunteers should:

• Wear long pants, sturdy closed-toed shoes and long socks.
• Bring insect repellant, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.
• Bring rain gear if drizzles are predicted since we will still work in light rain.

We will supply gloves as well as all other tools and materials. For your safety, all tools and gloves are washed and sanitized. Masks are required. Please meet at the barn in our parking lot. If the session is cancelled due to inclement weather or any other reason, we will contact you via email.

PLEASE NOTE:  Registration is required 24 hours in advance.  First-time volunteers must bring a completed Volunteer Waiver form to their first volunteer session.  Click here for the form.