MACGYVERS: MORTON ARBORETUM CHILDREN'S GARDEN YOUTH VOLUNTEERS!

Who can be a Macgyver?

Youth entering 7th, 8th, or 9th grade in the fall of 2013, who enjoy being outdoors, working with children, and/or gardening.

Too old to be a Macgyver? Check out our Counselor in Training Program!

Where do Macgyvers volunteer?

Primarily within the four-acre Children's Garden.

What do Macgyvers do?

Naturalist Macgyvers—interact with Children's Garden guests and facilitate hands-on activities.
Gardening Macgyvers—Macgyvers—assist in planting garden beds and containers, harvest edible products, and care for landscaped areas of the Children's Garden.

Why become a Macgyver?

• To have a great time working with kids and Arboretum Staff in a unique and exciting outdoor setting. 
• To help The Morton Arboretum, a world-class institution, be the very best it can be by providing quality, outdoor experiences for guests.
• To make friends, work with Arboretum Staff, learn what goes on behind-the-scenes of the Arboretum, and have a one-of-a-kind experience.
• To develop skills in public speaking, early childhood education, and environmental interpretation (Naturalists.)
• To develop skills in gardening including soil management, garden design, plant selection, harvesting, pest control, and ornamental gardening (Gardeners).

 
How do I become a Macgyver?

You and your adult guardian must attend a mandatory orientation in April. We'll explain both branches of the Macgyver program, tour the Children's Garden and answer your questions. If you are interested in becoming a youth volunteer, you will choose a branch that evening, fill out an application and sign up for an interview for the following week. If you are chosen as a participant in the program, please note that there are mandatory training dates in May.

How do I sign up for Macgyver Orientation?

• It's easy! Simply choose a date to attend orientation. Orientation will be held on April 3 OR 11, 2013 from 6:30– 8:00 p.m. in the Sycamore Room at The Morton Arboretum (Located next to the Visitor Center).
• Then send the following information to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , by phone 630-719-4887, or by mail Attn: Children's Garden, The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, Il 60532.
  • Date Attending Orientation
  • Name of potential volunteer
  • Address
  • Grade they will enter in the Fall of 2013
  • Email Address
  • Phone Number
• Finally don't forget to bring your guardian with you to our orientation night. Parents are asked to remain with their child the entire evening.
  
  

What days and times can I volunteer?

Macgyvers volunteer in the Children's Garden from June-October. Both Naturalists and Gardeners will have specific volunteer schedules that will be outlined at the Orientation.

Who can I contact about the program?

Macgyvers will get to know many of the program staff and horticulturists that work in the Children's Garden but if you would like to speak to someone please email us at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or call 630-719-4887.

Support for the Macgyver Program is provided by: