Volunteer

Volunteers are the heart and soul of our operation and there are many ways to get involved, even if you aren't a gardener! We offer several training courses during the year. Here are some of the ways to join in:

• Work with kids during weekly garden sessions. Often, teachers will stay in the classroom while teams of volunteers take out small groups of students to work, learn, cook and eat in the garden. The more volunteers we have, the more kids get to come out! Check out the event calendar for times and locations.
• Help with special events: Harvest festivals, plant sales, produce markets, or Earth Day.
• Lend your expertise in horticulture or with special projects like sewing, cooking or crafts.
• Help maintain gardens at work parties or on your own time.
• Help us raise support: Write grants and letters, petition businesses, or organize fund raising events.

Our Volunteer Handbook (updated 2020 - pdf) can provide you with a philosophy to build upon, as well as some practical ideas for working with kids in an outdoor classroom setting. We owe much of this to the wise and wonderful people of Tilth Alliance.
Did you know that multiple peer-reviewed studies have linked gardening to reduced stress and an overall improvement in physical and mental health? You can learn all kinds of fascinating information about gardens in our Why School Gardens? section, or check out our latest blog post. It's a great way to get yourself pumped up and mentally prepared for the garden season!

"I drove by the Northlake garden for a year before I finally stopped, and I now come to help in the garden every week - and I love it!" Denice Cook, Northlake Volunteer

If you are interested in volunteering in School Gardens, please take this quick Volunteer Welcome & Interest Survey as a first step. We will be in touch soon!

Or just reach out:

Email: info@lcschoolgardens.org

Phone: (360) 200-8918

Employment

Lower Columbia School Gardens is committed to the promotion of race, gender, ability and class equity through our hiring processes. To this end we are an equal opportunity employer. Candidates from historically excluded and/or underrepresented communities are highly encouraged to apply.

Posted October 13, 2026 - Open until filled

Development Coordinator Position Available

Reporting to the Program Director, the Development Coordinator position is a combination of remote and in-person work, 25-30 hours per week with occasional evening and weekend hours; the overall schedule is highly flexible. See the full position describtion for details.

Hiring is contingent on applicants passing the Longview and Kelso School District background checks. LCSG will assist selected applicants in the background check process.

Compensation starts at $29.45/hr, depending on experience and qualifications.

To apply: Complete the online application and also send a resume and cover letter to info@lcschoolgardens.org with the subject line, “Development Coordinator Position.” Any questions about the position or the application process can be directed to info@lcschoolgardens.org or 360-200-8918.