Volunteering

Volunteers are vital to our work. Every seed planted, weed pulled, and tomato harvested happens because people dedicated volunteers who show up to serve our community. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or completely new to growing food, there’s a place for you here.

What We Do Together

Mitchell Giving Gardens (MGG) grows and shares fresh, organic produce with our neighbors—at no cost. Our garden at Riverside Park in Spruce Pine is a welcoming space where we grow food collectively, not individually. Together with volunteers, we tend raised beds, maintain pollinator habitats, and harvest produce to share with local partners like Shepherd’s Staff Food Pantry and The Hive Community Center.

Why It Matters

By volunteering with MGG, you help:

  • Increase food security for families across Mitchell County

  • Strengthen our local food system

  • Create inclusive spaces for people to connect, learn, and share

  • Grow thousands of pounds of fresh produce each year for our community

Ways to Volunteer

Garden Maintenance
Support the daily care and upkeep of our garden sites. Tasks may include planting, watering, weeding, mulching, composting, and prepping beds for new crops. No experience needed—just a willingness to get your hands in the soil!

Harvesting & Food Distribution
Help us gather fresh produce and get it into the hands of those who need it. Volunteers assist with harvesting, packing, and delivering food to local organizations, pantries, and community members.

Workshops
Join us in empowering others through learning! Volunteers can help set up and support workshops for adults and youth, or lend a hand with community outreach and garden education events.

Event Set-up & Support
Bring your energy and helping hands to seasonal events, fundraisers, and community gatherings. From setting up tables and tents to welcoming guests and guiding activities, you’ll help create a joyful and organized experience for all.

Special Projects
Use your unique skills and creativity for one-time or seasonal projects. This might include building garden infrastructure (like raised beds or tool sheds), painting signs, or assisting with photo/video content. If you have a passion, we’re happy to help you put it to use!

What to Expect

Volunteering with Mitchell Giving Gardens is meant to be enjoyable, hands-on, and community-oriented. Whether you join us for an hour or a whole morning, you’ll be part of a team helping nurture the garden and the community it serves.

When You Arrive
You’ll be greeted by a staff member or lead volunteer who will check you in and give a quick orientation to the garden. We’ll review what’s growing, share the day’s priorities, and match you with a task that fits your comfort level.

Typical Tasks
Depending on the season, you might help with planting seedlings, watering, weeding, harvesting, mulching, or prepping beds for new crops. During peak harvest days, volunteers help weigh and pack produce for delivery to local food partners.

What to Bring

  • A refillable water bottle

  • Work gloves (we have extras if you need them)

  • Sunscreen and insect repellent if you feel it’s necessary

  • A snack if you plan to stay for a while

  • A friendly attitude and readiness to pitch in

Dress for the Garden
Come prepared for the weather and ready to get a little dirty!

  • Wear closed-toe shoes with good tread — sneakers or work boots are best

  • Choose clothes you don’t mind getting soil on (light, breathable fabrics in summer; layers in cooler months)

  • Bring a hat for sun protection and rain gear if the forecast calls for showers

  • In colder weather, layers and gloves help you stay comfortable

Working with Others
You’ll be volunteering alongside a mix of staff, interns, and community members of all ages. We value respect, communication, and teamwork— feel free to ask questions.

Children Welcome
Families are encouraged to join us in the garden! Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and must be supervised at all times.

Your time and energy make a real difference. Thank you for showing up and helping this garden—and our community—flourish. We can’t wait to grow alongside you!

Children exploring a mitchell giving garden archway covered in lush green vines and leaves, with a clear blue sky overhead.
A woman in a maroon tank top cutting orange and red marigold flowers in a garden.

Ready to Join Us?

There are many ways to help—whether you can come weekly, monthly, or just once in a while. Every hour makes a difference.

FAQs - Volunteering

  • Volunteers are the heart of Mitchell Giving Gardens! There are several ways to get involved — from weekly garden workdays and harvest days to helping with events, education, or special projects. Visit our Volunteering page to sign up for current opportunities or join our volunteer email list to hear about upcoming needs.

  • Not at all! We welcome volunteers of all ages and skill levels. Being in the garden is a great way to learn, and we encourage new gardeners to come grow with us. Whether you’re planting for the first time or already have a green thumb, our team provides guidance, mentorship, and plenty of hands-on learning during each session.

  • Yes! We love hosting groups from schools, churches, and community organizations. Group volunteer days are a great way to give back while connecting with your team. Reach out through our contact form to schedule a date.

  • Volunteer tasks change with the seasons — from planting, watering, and weeding to harvesting and preparing produce for distribution. During workdays, we focus on whatever the garden needs most to keep food growing strong for the community

  • Absolutely. We welcome volunteers with a wide range of skills! We often need help with:

    • Event support (setup, coordination, photography, or community outreach)

    • Administrative tasks (data entry, organizing supplies, or assisting with communications)

    • Education & workshops (teaching, helping facilitate, or sharing your expertise)

    • Marketing & storytelling (social media, graphic design, or writing)

    • Skilled trades (carpentry, irrigation setup, or repairs)

    If you have a special skill you’d like to offer — even if it’s not garden-related — we’d love to hear from you.

  • We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and gardening gloves if you have them (we have extras if you don’t).

  • Garden workdays typically take place weekly during the growing season, with additional harvest and cleanup days scheduled as needed. Sign up for the volunteer newsletter for current dates and times.

  • Yes! We’re happy to sign off on community service or school volunteer hours. Please let us know in advance so we can track your hours accordingly.