Volunteer

Gardens need people to bring them to life! Volunteers are an essential part of the growth, purpose and beauty of the Gardens. Volunteers bring their interests, energy, knowledge and passion to the Gardens, helping visitors by: 

• offering information
• guiding tours and leading education programs
• maintaining gardens
• promoting membership
• enriching each visitor’s experience

We welcome you to expand your knowledge of the natural world and help each visitor find inspiration, enjoyment and a stronger connection to Duke Gardens. 

Current Adult Volunteer Opportunities - February 2023

At this time, Duke Gardens is only seeking volunteer garden guides to lead youths on outdoor field trips in the Gardens. As other volunteer opportunities become available, we will post them on this page.

Garden Guides for School Programs

Are you a nature lover who enjoys engaging with children? Duke Gardens is actively seeking volunteers to join our dedicated team of specially trained garden guide volunteers. Garden guides are passionate about sharing their love of nature and educating thousands of youths through outdoor field trips in the Gardens.

You don’t need to be an expert or have a background in gardening, science or teaching! All you need is an interest in nature and outdoor learning, and a willingness to grow and learn with a flexible and friendly attitude.

Days & times needed: Weekday mornings, 9:30 a.m.-1p.m., from March to May and September to November.

Qualifications:

• Enjoy spending time with children, especially ages 4 to 13
• Must be 18+ years old
• Participate in garden guide trainings
• Commit to volunteering on weekday mornings (9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) from March to May and September to November.
• Able to be outdoors and physically navigate the Gardens for up to two hours in varying weather conditions
• Background check required upon completion of training

Training: Garden guides require specific training, observing, shadowing and practice to become proficient in program preparation and presentations to children. A willingness to learn specifics of each program and to be able implement or assist the lead garden guide is necessary. Some training is on the job and includes observation and shadowing of current garden guides.

Garden Guide Volunteer Benefits:

• Make a difference in your community and inspire others by supporting the mission of Duke Gardens
• Meet people with similar interests in outdoor youth education
• Develop your skills in educational outreach
• Enjoy volunteer events, lunch and learn programs and annual celebrations
• Earn a discount at Duke Gardens' Terrace Gift Shop

Questions about becoming a garden guide volunteer at Duke Gardens? Please email GardensVolunteer@duke.edu or call 919.668.3694.

Student Volunteer Opportunities

Students must be 16 or older to volunteer at Duke Gardens.

2023 Summer Camp Student Volunteers
Do you enjoy mentoring young children and leading them in learning activities outdoors? If you are a high school student who will be at least 16 years old by June 2023, please email GardensEducation@duke.edu to request a summer camp volunteer application.

2023 Terrace Gift Shop Volunteers
We will be seeking student volunteers to assist at the Terrace Gift Shop from March to December 2023. Please check back in March to see our available student volunteer opportunities at the gift shop. 

 

QUESTIONS ABOUT VOLUNTEERING?

Please email us at GardensVolunteer@duke.edu or call us at 919.668.3694. Thank you for your interest!