We rely on volunteer teams to run pumpkin collection events that benefit a farm or resuce/sanctuary Partner.
Our events typically look like this:
Duration: 3-5 hours. Collection time is 3-4 hours. Set up and tear down (including counting the collection) adds 15-20 minutes on either end of the event. Note: Farm market events typically run 6 hours start to finish.
# of Volunteers per event: We recommend 2 people for every two hours. If you can go 3 or more hours, that's cool, but given weather, bio breaks, and the unexpected, 2, maybe 3 hours is usually about right per late teen/adult person
What do you do exactly?
- Set up the table/collection area and put up signage
- Talk to the public about what you are doing and why (we'll coach you on what to say)
- Inspect donations and turn away anything that is rotting, molding, or covered in glitter/gems/etc. Thank donors!
- Count the produce so we can measure the impact of the event (we'll give you the guidelines so it's easy)
- Take photos (and post if you can on Instagram) throughout the event - the set up, the people donating with their donations - some bring a lot and it's impressive!, and the total with your team.
- Pack up the table/collection area
When: Usually weekends between Nov 1 and the weekend before Christmas. This opportunity is for each collection event. There may be multiple on a given day/time.
Skills - Be organized or have an adult helping team members learn to be organized and speak with the public
Locations: Throughout the region - usually LoCo, but could be Fairfax, WV, or DC if we get the opportunity