We offer one-time volunteer shifts at our South Chicago Farm and Fresh Moves Mobile Market. Shifts are typically 2-3 hours long. Volunteers help with a variety of tasks, including greeting customers, prepping beds, weeding, seeding, and harvesting. All ages are welcome!
If you would like to consistently support our work, sign up for a recurring volunteer shift! This is a month-long commitment that allows you to volunteer at the same farm at the same time each week. We ask that you commit to working all shifts for the month.
We occasionally offer group volunteer opportunities. If your organization is interested in volunteering with us, please fill out the form below.
A face mask or covering, a water bottle filled with water; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat if it’s sunny or rain gear if it’s stormy; and a snack. UGC will provide all the tools you’ll need to work. If you have a medical condition such as asthma or anaphylaxis, please bring your inhaler or epi-pen and inform your group leader of your condition before beginning work. We do have an apiary at our South Chicago farm, and there are many native bees around.
DO NOT bring personal items with you to the farm. We do not have storage on site and will not take responsibility for your belongings. If you bring valuables such as phones, wallets, jewelry, etc., you do so at your own risk.
Farming is hard work! Depending on the season, you may be preparing beds, shifting compost, planting, harvesting, or cleaning up the land. We work rain or shine, so please come prepared for the weather. Expect to get your hands and clothes dirty by the end of the day.
Plan to arrive a few minutes before your shift begins. Please come on time because we begin our program promptly, and there’s a lot to be done!
All volunteers are required to wear face masks and gloves. Disposable masks will be provided if needed. Please also wear closed-toe shoes (absolutely no sandals or flip flops), clothes that you don’t mind getting really dirty (pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended), and bring an extra layer and rain gear–just in case.
That’s okay! Just let us know over at info@urbangrowerscollective.org as soon as possible so we can open up the slot for someone else.
Yes! We work when it rains. Our growers will call it if weather conditions are dangerous or not conducive for field work.