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Get Involved

Volunteer

Roll up your sleeves in the garden, meet neighbors, and help grow fresh food for families across Benton County. No experience required — just a willingness to dig in.

Volunteers working in the garden, planting and harvesting produce

Volunteer to Strengthen Our Community

  • 12,000+ Pounds Each Year

    Fresh produce grown and delivered to local food pantry partners.

  • 100% Donated

    All produce is provided at no cost to families and food pantry partners.

  • 1,000+ Families Fed

    Real families in our community eating fresher, healthier meals because of this work.

  • 100% Volunteer Run

    Every pound harvested, every delivery made — it all happens because someone like you showed up.

Ways to Help

Ways to Volunteer

In the Garden

Help plant, water, weed, and harvest from spring through fall.

Harvest & Delivery

Pick fresh produce and deliver it to local pantry partners.

Team Volunteer Days

Bring your church, workplace, or group for a shared day in the garden.

Behind the Scenes

Support scheduling, communications, and everyday garden operations.

Skilled Volunteers

Offer professional experience in grants, tech, design, maintenance, and more.

Community Advocates

Share our story and help new neighbors find a way to serve.

Have questions about volunteering at the garden?

Are there volunteer roles besides garden work?

Yes, though needs are more limited. Opportunities may include grant writing, data entry and analysis, expert gardening guidance, facility maintenance, and communications or website support.

Can families or youth groups volunteer?

Yes. Families are welcome at community workdays, and we partner with local schools for youth garden education. Contact us before bringing large groups so we can plan accordingly.

Can groups volunteer?

Yes. Families, churches, employers, schools, and community organizations are welcome. Group volunteering is a great way to serve together.

Do I need gardening experience?

No. Most volunteers start with none. We will show you what to do and match you with tasks that fit your comfort level.

Do I need to sign up in advance?

Advance sign-up is not always required. Most volunteers respond to outreach for a specific day and time. Experienced volunteers familiar with routine garden work may drop in at agreed times.

How do I sign up to volunteer?

Fill out the volunteer form or contact us through the Contact page. We will reach out to find a fit that works for you — large or small.

What if I can’t do heavy physical work?

There is still a role for you. Washing produce, sorting, data entry, grant writing, communications, and other support tasks do not require heavy garden work.

What keeps volunteers coming back?

Flexible scheduling, meaningful community impact, group camaraderie, appreciation and recognition, and confidence that OSPP is well-managed and committed to its mission.

What safety expectations should volunteers know?

Be mindful of your physical limits, heat exposure, tripping hazards, and proper use of hand tools. Mobility needs can often be accommodated with the right tasks.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty and closed-toe shoes. We have gloves and tools on site. Bring water and sun protection during summer months.

When are volunteer days?

Volunteer help is needed from mid-April through October, with the heaviest need during planting (mid-April through early June) and harvest (late August through October). Days and times vary, usually between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, rarely on Sundays.

Where do I go?

811 D Avenue, Vinton, Iowa. The garden is on county grounds next to a county facility along a major Vinton thoroughfare, with visible signage and sufficient parking.

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