Welcome! If you are wondering about the volunteer program at the U.S. Botanic Garden, read on for answers to some of our frequently asked questions from prospective volunteers.
Q: Who are U.S. Botanic Garden volunteers?
Volunteers are a crucial part of the U.S. Botanic Garden community. Through their time at the Garden, volunteers develop new skills, explore their personal interests, and make significant contributions that enable the Garden to fulfill its mission.
Volunteers are professionals, hobbyists, retirees or employed full-time. Volunteers must be 18 years of age.
Q: What kinds of volunteer opportunities does the U.S. Botanic Garden have?
Volunteers assist with plant care, facilitate public programs, provide visitor services, and more! Click to learn more about Public Engagement and Hands-on Gardening volunteer opportunities.
Q: Do I need a horticulture or plant science background?
We are most interested in your enthusiasm, flexibility, and willingness to learn! Previous experience with horticulture, gardening, plant science, or education may be helpful, but are not required.
Q: Are all volunteer applicants accepted?
While the Volunteer Coordinator endeavors to place each applicant, it is not always possible to find an assignment that is an appropriate match for both the applicant and the Garden.
Please note that acceptance to the U.S. Botanic Garden Volunteer Program is contingent upon a background check and fingerprinting required for all prospective volunteers.
Q: What is the volunteer commitment?
We ask volunteers to serve a minimum of two shifts per month. Shift length and schedule varies based on the volunteer activity.
Q: What volunteer opportunities are available on the weekends?
We have many Public Engagement volunteer opportunities available on the weekend. We do not have any Hands-on Gardening volunteer opportunities on the weekend or in the evening.
Q: What are the benefits of volunteering?
Volunteers develop new skills, explore their personal interests and make significant contributions that enable the Garden to fulfill its mission. Volunteering is a great way to meet others and connect with the community.
Q: Can I volunteer at the U.S. Botanic Garden to get hours towards a service requirement?
Yes! If you are eligible for our volunteer program, we can provide a record of your hours as a report out for a service requirement.
If you are under 18 and interested in fulfilling a service requirement, please check out Educational Internship Opportunities at the U.S. Botanic Garden.
Q: Are there remote volunteer opportunities at the U.S. Botanic Garden?
No, all available volunteer opportunities are located at the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory (100 Maryland Ave SW) or Production Facility (4700 Shepherd Parkway SW).