Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
If your garden is a collective (as compared to having allotment plots), watering might be something
that can keep several people busy for an hour or two depending on how many hoses or watering cans
you have. Also, with a collective garden, harvesting might be an option—but first ask your gardeners.
Sometimes the picking is the best part for them and, after long weeks of tending, to let someone from
the outside have all the fun might not sit well.
If you have more people than tasks, suggest that the service day include a lecture by a local authority
on a topic agreed upon by you and the service organization. Alternatively, you or one of the members
of your leadership team can talk about the mission of your project. Or, if you have community partners,
maybe they could use part of the large organization for a task. You can use the garden as a meeting spot,
with smaller groups spreading out across the neighborhood, performing tasks. After the event is over,
everyone can regroup at the garden to celebrate.
HOW TO MANAGE A LARGE OUTSIDE
VOLUNTEER GROUP
Communicate the mission of your organization to your point person at the volunteering organization, outlin-
ing what the tasks will be and what's expected of participants. Creating e-mails or documents covering this
information might seem like busywork, but a few simple guidelines sent ahead of time will make sure every-
one's expectations align, helping ensure that the day goes smoothly.
The volunteers may be eager to get their hands dirty, but is there an opportunity to do a quick pitch
to them about becoming donors? Maybe even a short presentation about your program? Try to provide
some additional education or information, so the time spent on your project is worthwhile for them and
you.
Before
Clearly communicate event details, along with the level of work involved (easy to difficult).
Suggest what they should wear, and identify any materials they need to bring (such as gloves or sun-
screen).
Make sure the organization has signed hold harmless waivers or equivalent, for all participants.
During
Sign everyone in and ensure that they have provided a hold harmless waiver.
Identify supervisors, team leaders, and go-to people.
Provide a list of all activities for the day, and the number of people needed for each.
Have all materials which you will be providing on hand and ready.
Welcome the volunteers, thank them for their time, and provide information about your program.
Indicate to everyone where the bathrooms are, and where they can get water.
Document the day with photos or video.
