Volunteer for LexFarm
We LOVE volunteers!
One of the best ways to learn what it takes to grow the local food we all love is to volunteer at LexFarm. Volunteers help with veggies and herbs in the field, the greenhouses, and in the farm store. They help the land and building crew. And, they help with administrative and leadership roles. Volunteers expand our capacity and help create a sense of community.
There are volunteer opportunities at LexFarm for individuals, families and groups. We strive to accommodate volunteers within the constraints of operating a working farm that feeds thousands of people. Most volunteer opportunities are for people 18 years and older, although we do have bi-monthly volunteer sessions with farm tasks that lend themselves to younger people.
Our goal is to provide a safe and fun environment for volunteers and staff alike.
All volunteers must register and sign our updated Release and Waiver of Liability each calendar year which acknowledges the inherent risks posed by volunteering on a working farm. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign the form.
Volunteer Opportunities
Field Work
June – October* For Saturday mornings, while all ages are welcome, children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by a parent. Unaccompanied minors, ages 16 and 17, must have their parent/guardian sign their waiver form. Sign Up: Saturday Mornings
Pop-up field work, variable days & times, adults 18+
Tasks vary from week to week. They can include field preparation like spreading compost, weeding, cleaning fields to prepare for new harvests, and general farm maintenance.
Volunteers must be prepared to walk on uneven ground, kneel, bend, lift heavy items safely, and get a little dirty! The work can be challenging. It’s also exceptionally satisfying and gratifying to take part in a little piece of your local food system. We will meet up by the information kiosk next to the farm stand.
Sign Up: Pop-up Field WorkGleaners
June – October
Fridays, 12:30 – 2:30 pm, adults 18+
Gleaners help harvest extra-abundant produce from the field. This surplus will be donated to the Lexington Interfaith Food Pantry. NOTE: A confirmation email will be sent on Thursday each week, as some weeks there may not be gleaning needs.
Volunteers must be prepared to walk on uneven ground, kneel, bend, lift heavy items safely, and get a little dirty! We will meet up at the information kiosk next to the farm stand.
Sign Up: GleanersFarm Stewardship Crew
Help us maintain and care for the land that feeds us. Although the farmers and their crew manage the fields and greenhouses for growing food, we count on volunteers to assist our staff and board with all the non-farming activities that support the operation and stewardship of a welcoming community farm. Throughout the year, individual and group volunteers maintain the buildings, field edges (e.g., clearing invasive species), the learning garden and participate in beautification projects, such as planting bulbs near the front sign and entrance.
If you are interested in volunteering occasionally or regularly, individually or as part of a group when projects are organized, please contact Mark Manasas at [email protected]..
Farm Store
May – October
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
5:00 – 7:30 pm
Often, LexFarm’s store serves as a hub of the community, offering CSA distribution, fresh vegetables and fruit, local cheeses, meats, condiments, breads and more. And, this Spring, you will find a newly redesigned space.
Volunteering in the farm store is a great way to connect with farm visitors, customers, members and shareholders, and to learn about farm operations. We are looking for volunteers who can commit to one hour each week. Tasks in the farm stand include moving produce bins, quality control, cleaning, merchandising, arranging flowers and stocking. Contact the Farm Store Manager at [email protected] for more information.
Volunteer Groups
April – October
Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday mornings, dates scheduled with staff
We love when volunteers come together and work at our farm. You help us care for the farm and improve the farmland and the infrastructure, while strengthening bonds among your faith communities, ad hoc groups, family or friends.
Work with our farm team on larger group-oriented projects. Depending upon the season and the farm’s needs, projects include building compost bins, clearing invasive species, minor construction, spreading wood chips or compost, preparing fields for transplanting, maintaining greenhouse and farmstand, and participating in bulk harvests.
This opportunity is perfect for groups looking to get outside and work as a team. A minimum of 10 volunteers is required. A donation is encouraged to cover the costs of planning and purchasing materials to accommodate larger groups. Email [email protected].
Special Events and Projects
April – October
Days and times vary
Throughout the year, LexFarm hosts events and leads projects that engage the community in and about the farm. All of these activities are volunteer-run. Get to know more of the farm community, take care of the farm, support our community building efforts, and have FUN!
- Patriots’ Day Parade
- Seedling sale
- Earth Day farm tours
- Discovery Day
- Music and Arts performances/installations
- Harvest Festival
- Pop up events and socials
Sign up for the LexFarm newsletter for information about these events, including volunteer sign ups.
