Welcome to Volunteer Services

It takes many dedicated people to maintain excellence at a large public garden, and volunteers are an integral part of the process.

Volunteer efforts can be seen everywhere at the Chicago Botanic Garden – in the display gardens, native habitats and greenhouses; in the research labs, mechanics shop and café; in the library and classrooms; and at special events. Volunteer enthusiasm and dedication inspire the Garden’s Board, staff and visitors. The Garden couldn't achieve what it does without volunteers.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a wonderful place for volunteers to make a contribution to their community, form new friendships, learn new skills and have fun.

More than 900,000 visitors a year are touched by volunteer activities at the Garden. The sounds of wonder and amazement as visitors walk through the Garden, the smiles of children as they plant seeds, the looks of understanding as people receive answers to their plant questions – this feedback attests to the fulfillment of the Garden’s mission … to connect plants and people.

Volunteers are in the thick of this effort. They are a very important part of the Garden and will be even more essential in the years ahead.

Consider joining the volunteer family! We hope we will hear from and meet each of you soon.

—Judy Cashen, Volunteer Services Manager

How to Volunteer
Volunteer Opportunities/Information
Application Request Form