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The Gardens at SIUE

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Volunteer Opportunities


Volunteer Application

The Gardens’ volunteer program nurtures fun and cultivates camaraderie. The harvest will be a beautiful garden for all to enjoy. Please contact The Gardens if you wish to participate. Phone: 618-650-3070 or Email: thegardens@siue.edu.

Thanks to the efforts of many, 2008 was a vibrant and successful year for The Gardens at SIUE. In response to several requests, The Gardens is expanding its volunteer program in 2009. Volunteers will be greeted at The Gardens Center, our visitors’ center and maintenance headquarters which has restrooms, a break room, lockers and convenient parking, on Arboretum Lane. The Gardens will provide tools and materials for volunteer activities and will consider all reasonable requests.

Please keep in mind:

  • Experience is not necessary, The Gardens staff will provide training
  • You are welcome to contribute regularly or for a single event
  • Meet at The Gardens Center and check-in with the Grounds Manager

Volunteer Positions

  • Horticulture – To enhance the aesthetics and manage the landscape using basic horticultural practices including weeding, planting, and watering
  • Natural Areas – To enhance and manage natural areas including woodlands, wetlands, and prairies to restore and promote ecosystem health
  • Garden Ambassador – To share information about The Gardens with visitors and may lead tours and assist during special events
  • Special Events Volunteer – To assist with special event set-up


Volunteer Opportunities

Adopt-a-Garden Program

  • A group or individual tends a garden throughout the growing season
  • Weekly or twice-monthly commitment (time and day to be determined)
  • Activities include weeding, watering, and general gardening practices
  • Contact The Gardens for available gardens to adopt

Drop-in Volunteer – March 16 through October 31

  • Please call ahead to register*
  • Weekdays -
    • Monday – no volunteer activities planned
    • Tuesday through Friday – any time between 8:30 – 4:30
  • Weekends – Third Saturday of each month – 8:00 – 12:00


Event Dates

  • Arbor Day, Friday, April 24 from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
  • Plastic Pot Recycling – Dates to be determined





© 2009, SIUE | http://www.siue.edu/gardens/volunteer.shtml | Last modified on 11/05/09 14:46:06