By Jacob Inosencio
Are you looking for a way to make a meaningful impact in your community? Do you enjoy
working outside, getting a little dirty, and knowing that your efforts directly contribute to fresh
food access in Jackson? Volunteering with Grow Jackson is a fantastic way to give back while
enjoying fresh air, physical activity, and a chance to meet others who care about food justice and community health.
At Grow Jackson, we believe that fresh, nutritious food should be accessible to everyone.
Through our community gardening initiatives and food programs, we provide thousands of
people with healthy options each year. But we can’t do it alone—we need dedicated volunteers to help us cultivate these spaces, keep our gardens thriving, and ensure that our mission continues to grow. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or have never picked up a shovel, there’s a place for you here. Grow Jackson volunteering events are family friendly and there is always something for everyone to help out with!
What to Wear and Bring
Before you head out to volunteer with Grow Jackson, it’s important to dress appropriately for the work. Gardening and community projects require moving around, handling soil, and being
exposed to the elements. To stay safe and comfortable, keep these guidelines in mind:
● Closed-toed shoes: You’ll be walking on dirt, mulch, and uneven ground, so sturdy
sneakers or work boots are essential for protecting your feet. Flip-flops and sandals are
not suitable for this type of work.
● Dress in layers: Michigan weather can change quickly, especially in the spring.
Mornings may start out chilly, but by the afternoon, the sun can make it feel much
warmer. Wear layers that you can easily add or remove as needed.
● Stay hydrated: Working outside—especially during physical tasks—means your body
needs plenty of water. We’ll provide water at the site, but bringing your own reusable
water bottle is highly encouraged.
We also want to ensure that everyone feels safe and prepared while working in the garden. If you have a bee allergy, be sure to bring your epipen with you. Additionally, individuals with
sensitive seasonal allergies may find that working outdoors in the garden for an extended period can trigger symptoms, so taking allergy medication beforehand might be helpful.
What to Expect
One of the best things about volunteering with Grow Jackson is that no two days are ever the
same. There’s always work to be done, and we make sure to provide tasks for volunteers of all
ages and ability levels. Whether you love hands-on, physical labor or prefer a more gentle
approach, there’s a role for you.
In the spring, volunteers can expect to participate in activities such as:
● Spreading compost, soil, and mulch – This helps enrich the garden beds, making them
more fertile and ready for planting. It’s an essential step in ensuring our crops have the
nutrients they need to thrive.
● Planting seeds and young plants – This is where the magic begins! Volunteers get to
place tiny seeds into the soil and nurture them into healthy vegetables, herbs, and flowers
that will later be harvested for the community.
● Garden clean-up – We’ll be clearing out any weeds, debris, and overgrowth that may
have built up over the winter months. A well-maintained garden is key to producing
healthy food.
● Building raised beds and trellises – If you enjoy light construction or carpentry, this is a
great opportunity to contribute. Raised beds help create more structured and efficient
growing spaces, while trellises support climbing plants like tomatoes and beans.
● Removing old plant material – Before new crops can flourish, we need to remove last
season’s dead plants. This makes room for fresh growth and keeps the soil in good
condition.
● Special projects – Depending on the needs of the season, volunteers may help with other
tasks like setting up irrigation, painting garden signs, or even working on educational
programming for local schools.
No matter what task you take on, you’ll leave feeling accomplished, knowing that your efforts
directly support fresh food access in our community.
Why Volunteer with Grow Jackson?
Volunteering with Grow Jackson isn’t just about gardening—it’s about making a difference in
your community while also benefiting yourself. Here are a few reasons why you should consider joining us:
● Give back to your community: Your time and effort directly support families in
Jackson who rely on fresh, locally grown food. By helping our gardens flourish, you
ensure that more people have access to healthy meals.
● Stay active and enjoy the outdoors: Volunteering with Grow Jackson is a great way to
stay physically active without the need for a gym. Gardening can be a full-body workout,
helping with strength, flexibility, and endurance—all while soaking up fresh air and
sunshine.
● Beautify and strengthen neighborhoods: Community gardens do more than grow
food—they create vibrant, welcoming spaces that bring people together and make our
neighborhoods stronger. A well-maintained green space can uplift an entire community.
● Support an essential program: Grow Jackson reaches thousands of people each year
through fresh food initiatives and educational programs. Your help ensures that these
efforts continue and expand, making a lasting impact for years to come.
Whether you’re volunteering as an individual, with a group of friends, or as part of a company
service project, your work helps transform Jackson into a healthier, more connected community.
What Grow Jackson Provides
We want to make sure every volunteer feels prepared and supported while working with us.
When you come out to help, Grow Jackson will provide:
● Gloves and tools – No need to bring your own gardening gear; we have everything
you’ll need to get the job done.
● Snacks and water – Staying energized is important, so we make sure our volunteers are
well taken care of.
● A first aid kit – Minor scrapes and bumps happen sometimes, but we’re always prepared
with first aid supplies.
All you need to bring is a willingness to help and a positive attitude!
Ready to Join Us?
We’d love to have you as part of our volunteer team! Whether you come alone, bring a friend, or organize a group, your time and effort help Grow Jackson continue its mission of increasing
fresh food access in our community.
Interested in signing up? Visit our website or follow us on social media to find upcoming
volunteer opportunities. We can’t wait to grow with you!
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Earth Day Volunteer Event
Where: MLK Recreation Center, 1107 Adrian St
When: 9am-12pm
Other Volunteer Opportunities
MLK Recreation Center: May 30 @ 1pm
Tomlinson Street Garden: May 31 @ 10am