Education Volunteer - Haskell Gardens Lunch & Learn

Opportunity Description:

The Trustees is seeking enthusiastic, creative, and community-minded volunteers to support Mobile Adventures, a free environmental education program that brings hands-on nature play and learning experiences to public centers and events throughout urban neighborhoods. Through science discovery, storytelling, crafts, and outdoor exploration, Education Volunteers help create welcoming and inclusive experiences that foster curiosity, belonging, environmental stewardship, and meaningful connections between children and families in their communities, and the natural world.

Haskell Gardens will be welcoming members of the community five days a week (Monday through Friday) from 12-2 from July 2nd to August 21 for a new Lunch & Learn series this summer to provide free lunches and environmental programming. This series is made possible through partnerships with the Public Housing Authority and the New Bedford Public School System. Each day of the week will have a different theme, with a tentative structure of:

Monday: Nature Art

Tuesday: Hands-on exploration (ex: bug hunts, geology, plant ID, birding, etc)

Wednesday: Nature Play and Learn

Thursday: Storytelling

Friday: Gardening

Why Volunteer with Mobile Adventures? 

This opportunity is ideal for individuals interested in environmental education, youth engagement, outdoor learning, community outreach, and public service. Volunteers gain experience in outdoor education, facilitation, community programming, and inclusive engagement practices while helping expand access to nature-based experiences for local families. Consistent volunteers may have opportunities for recurring programs, special events, and increased leadership involvement over time. 

Reports to: Mobile Engagement Manager and Outdoor Educators 

Responsibilities: 

Volunteers may assist with: 

• Supporting hands-on environmental education activities for children and families  
• Engaging participants through crafts, games, books, and exploration-based learning  
• Creating welcoming, safe, and inclusive program environments  
• Assisting with setup, cleaning, and monitoring the property site (restocking restrooms, keeping folks from harming plants or property structures, making sure doors are locked)
• Supporting participant wellbeing and communicating concerns with staff  
• Observing the Trustees code of conduct, safety protocols, and professional standards at all times

Qualifications: 

Volunteers should be warm, dependable, collaborative, and comfortable working with children and families in active community settings. Interest or experience in environmental education, youth engagement, recreation, conservation, or public programming is preferred. 

Requirements: 

• Minimum age of 18  
• Reliable transportation to program location (Haskell Gardens, New Bedford)
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain and work outdoors in varying weather  
• Ability to lift and carry lightweight materials for program setup and breakdown 
• Dress in neat and appropriate clothes and footwear for varying weather conditions

Time Commitment:  

• Attend one Trustees volunteer welcome session (phone/virtual call) and one hour-long introductory Mobile Adventures training in-person 
• Sign up for events based on availability, ideally at least once per month.*   

*Recurring participation is encouraged to help build meaningful relationships with participants and communities. 

Safety Considerations/Hazards:  

• Exposure to outdoor environmental conditions including heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain, insects, and poison ivy  
• Managing participant safety and maintaining awareness in active outdoor environments    
• Responding appropriately to Trustees staff and participants when emergencies, behavioral concerns, weather changes, or unexpected situations arise 
• Adhering to organizational safety procedures, child safeguarding policies, and volunteer conduct expectations  
• Walking, standing, lifting, bending, and transporting program materials and equipment may be required

More about The Trustees Founded by landscape architect Charles Eliot in 1891, The Trustees has, for more than 125 years, been a catalyst for important ideas, endeavors, and progress in Massachusetts. As a steward of distinctive and dynamic places of both historic and cultural value, The Trustees is the nation’s first preservation and conservation organization, and its landscapes and landmarks continue to inspire discussion, innovation, and action today as they did in the past. We are a nonprofit, supported by members, friends and donors and our 116 sites are destinations for residents, members, and visitors alike, welcoming millions of guests annually. www.thetrustees.org.

Inclusive Spaces for All
We are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all. Together, alongside our partners and volunteers we are creating inclusive spaces of community for people of all backgrounds to enjoy and preserving these open spaces for everyone, forever. We are committed to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience.