Volunteer
For more than 30 years, volunteers have planted, restored, and cared for Narrows Botanical Gardens. Their work has created habitats for wildlife, beautiful public gardens, and a place where the community can experience nature in the heart of Brooklyn. Join us and help keep the gardens thriving!
Volunteer Saturdays
Join us for hands-on garden work that keeps the gardens healthy and thriving. Tasks may include planting, weeding, mulching, seasonal garden care, and ongoing restoration. Check the schedule below for upcoming dates and sign up for a volunteer day.
Where: Meet us at the Shore Road entrance, just north of Bay Ridge Avenue.
No gardening experience is necessary. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor work, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and bring a water bottle.
Sessions run from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and you're welcome to stay for the full session or part of the day.
Please register for the date(s) below so we can plan projects and supplies.
2026 Volunteer Saturdays schedule
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SAT, July 11
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Garden Maintenance
(weather permitting) -
SAT, July 18
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Garden Maintenance
(weather permitting) -
SAT, August 1
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Garden Maintenance
(weather permitting) -
SAT, August 15
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Garden Maintenance
(weather permitting) -
SAT, August 29
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Garden Maintenance
(weather permitting)
Garden Greeters
Help keep the Native & Wildlife Sanctuary open on weekends by welcoming visitors and sharing information about the gardens. Garden Greeters answer questions, assist at the donation table, and help create a friendly visitor experience during a two-hour shift.
No gardening experience is needed, and there's no digging or weeding involved. Students (16+) and adults are welcome. Choose a date and time that fits your schedule, and volunteer as often as you'd like.
Share your professional skills
Some projects call for specialized skills and experience. We welcome volunteers with backgrounds in horticulture, native plants and ecology, photography, videography, graphic design, illustration, writing, social media, environmental education, wildlife care, carpentry and skilled trades, fundraising, nonprofit administration, and other related fields.
If your experience is a good match for the gardens' current needs, use the contact form below to tell us a little about your background and availability. A member of our team will contact you if an opportunity is a good fit.
Other ways to volunteer
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![group of volunteers]()
Group & Organizational Volunteering
Designed for schools, companies, nonprofits, and community groups.
Groups can schedule a volunteer day focused on hands-on garden work, stewardship projects, or seasonal maintenance. Group volunteering offers a meaningful team experience while directly supporting the care of the gardens. Advance coordination is required to ensure projects align with garden needs and capacity.
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Special Event Volunteers
Designed for community members who enjoy supporting seasonal events.
Volunteers assist with event setup and sales during our annual events, including the Plant Sale, Lavender Days, Honey Days, and other special programs. Responsibilities also include helping visitors and assisting with end-of-day cleanup. Volunteer opportunities are announced throughout the season on our News page and social media channels.
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![volunteer holding baby box turtle]()
Youth & Student Volunteering
Opportunities for students seeking service hours.
Students and youth groups are welcome to volunteer through Volunteer Saturdays or organized group volunteer days, depending on age and supervision requirements. Community service hours can be verified upon request.
