Current Volunteer Opportunities
Natural Area Volunteers
Invasive Plants grow and spread rapidly, crowding out native trees, wildflowers, and plants we want to establish in collections areas.Volunteers in good physical condition, able to navigate uneven terrain, and work in all weather conditions are welcome to join one of our work groups below. Must be 18+years old. Volunteer workdays include: Meadow Lake -Tuesday mornings-8:30- 11:30am, East Prairie Group – Thursday mornings– 8:30-11:30 am, Heritage Trail Group – Friday mornings – 8:30-11:30 am, Weekend Warriors – Every First Saturday of the month – 8:30-11:30am, Buckthorn Busters – Wednesday mornings - 8:30-11:30am, Tuesdays in the Tallgrass - Tuesday mornings in April and May - 8:30-11am. Must be 18+ years old.
Collection Volunteers
Assist horticulturists in caring for a specific garden, one weekday morning each week during the growing season. Ability to work well with a team of gardeners is a must. A willingness to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions including heat, cool and wet weather is essential. Must be physically able to walk on uneven, grassy terrain, be able to bend, kneel, dig and use gardening implements. Garden tools will be provided for gardening tasks. Season kickoff will be mid March 2013. Season runs April through October. Must be 18+years old.
Bike Safety Patrol
Volunteers are sought to "ride the roads" April through October and provide information and assistance to individuals and families biking at the Arboretum. Weekends, Wednesdays, and Bike Nights are especially busy times. Experienced bikers with their own bicycle and safety equipment, who are available for a minimum of two shifts per month, may apply for this assignment. Commitment minimum of one year - two shifts (2-4 hours) each month. Must be 18+years old.
Children's Garden Volunteers
The Morton Arboretum's Children's Garden is a magical place, and is especially busy on Wednesdays and weekends. Volunteers monitor for safety at the front gate, at the water features, and throughout the Garden. Commitment minimum of two shifts each month, to be arranged with the Children's Garden staff. Morning and afternoon shifts available. Must complete a background check. New volunteer training will start in March 2013. Must be 18+ years old.