Opportunities From: Powell Gardens Kansas City's Botanical Garden

Role: Station Reset Volunteer
As a Station Reset Volunteer, you’ll play a vital behind-the-scenes role in preparing the Garden for a seamless guest experience during Dark Forest.

Responsibilities:

Meet at The Barn for check-in.

Restock each station with beverages and ice.

Assist with mixing batched signature drinks.

Perform light cleaning to ensure all stations are tidy and ready.

Double-check setup so stations are fully prepared before gates open.

Details:

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Volunteers Needed: 2 per day

Location: Powell Gardens – The Barn (check-in location)

Inclement Weather Plan:
In the event of inclement weather, Dark Forest will move to the scheduled rain date. Times and volunteer shifts will remain the same. Volunteers will be notified directly of any additional changes.

Staff Lead: Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org | 660.624.3176

Role: T-Shirt Support
As a T-Shirt Support volunteer, you’ll help ensure guests receive their exclusive event t-shirts quickly and smoothly.

Responsibilities:

Meet at The Barn for check-in and team huddle.

Provide a welcoming, helpful presence at the t-shirt table.

Collect t-shirt tickets from guests.

Show guests the available styles and sizes.

Distribute the correct t-shirt based on guest selection.

Mark each guest off the distribution list once their t-shirt is received.

Details:

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Attire: All black, business casual

Location: Powell Gardens – The Barn (check-in location)

Inclement Weather Plan:
In the event of inclement weather, activities will move to the scheduled rain date. Times and volunteer shifts will remain the same. Volunteers will be notified directly of any additional changes.

Staff Lead:
Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org | 660.624.3176

Presented in partnership with Quixotic, Powell Gardens ushers in fall with Dark Forest—an immersive, multimedia walk-through experience in the woods. As night falls, guests journey through a magical and mysterious wooded landscape filled with paranormal forces and spellbinding supernatural beings.

Role: Dark Forest Greeter
As a Entrance Greeter, you’ll be the friendly guide that ensures guests find their way seamlessly into the experience while highlighting other features of the Gardens.

Responsibilities:

Meet at The Barn for check-in and team huddle.

Welcome guests as they arrive from the parking lot.

Direct guests toward the Dark Forest experience.

Encourage guests to stop by the Garden Gallery display before or after their walk-through.

Monitor the Visitor Center entrance and kindly redirect guests, ensuring no one enters during private events.

Provide a warm, welcoming presence to set the tone for the evening.

Details:

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Times: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Attire: All black, business casual

Location: Powell Gardens – Check-in at The Barn

Inclement Weather Plan:
In the event of inclement weather, Dark Forest will move to the scheduled rain date. Times and volunteer shifts will remain the same. Volunteers will be notified directly of any additional changes.

Staff Lead:

Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org | 660.624.3176

Step into the glow of Fire Feast at Powell Gardens—an evening filled with pop-up fire performances, specialty fire-themed cocktails and mocktails, and a nightly menu cooked over an open wood fire.

Role: Fire Feast Server
As a Fire Feast Server, you’ll help create an exceptional guest experience by ensuring guests feel cared for throughout the evening.

Responsibilities:

Meet at The Barn for check-in and team huddle.

Assist with serving food and beverages during the event.

Support staff with clearing tables and maintaining a tidy dining area.

Provide attentive, friendly, and professional service to all guests.

Ensure guests feel welcomed and engaged throughout their dining experience.

Details:

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Attire: All black, business casual

Location: Powell Gardens – The Barn (check-in location)

Inclement Weather Plan:
In the event of inclement weather, Fire Feast will move to the scheduled rain date. Times and volunteer shifts will remain the same. Volunteers will be notified directly of any additional changes.

Staff Lead:
Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org | 660.624.3176

Step into the glow of Fire Feast at Powell Gardens—an evening filled with pop-up fire performances, specialty fire-themed cocktails and mocktails, and a nightly menu cooked over an open wood fire.

Role: Fire Feast Bar Back
As a Fire Feast Bar Back, you’ll support the bar team to ensure smooth service throughout the evening. This behind-the-scenes role is vital to keeping drinks flowing and guests happy.

Responsibilities:

Meet at The Barn for check-in and team huddle.

Restock bar supplies (ice, glassware, mixers, garnishes).

Assist bartenders by maintaining a clean and organized bar area.

Collect and wash used glassware as needed.

Provide general support to ensure efficient bar service.

Details:

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Requirements: Must be 21 years or older

Attire: All black, business casual

Location: Powell Gardens – The Barn (check-in location)

Inclement Weather Plan:
In the event of inclement weather, Fire Feast will move to the scheduled rain date. Times and volunteer shifts will remain the same. Volunteers will be notified directly of any additional changes.

Staff Lead:

Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org | 66.624.3176

Step into the glow of Fire Feast at Powell Gardens—an evening filled with pop-up fire performances, specialty fire-themed cocktails and mocktails, and a nightly menu cooked over an open wood fire.

Role: Fire Feast Greeter
As a Fire Feast Greeter, you’ll be the first friendly face our guests see and help set the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Responsibilities:

Meet at The Barn for check-in and team huddle.

Greet and check in guests with professionalism and warmth.

Provide directions to the bar, dining areas, and performance spaces.

Ensure guests feel welcome and informed.

Details:

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Attire: All black, business casual

Location: Powell Gardens – The Barn (check-in location)

Staff Lead:
Jamie Runyon |Jrunyon@powellgardens.org | 660.624.3176

Help guests start their Dark Forest experience on the right foot by serving as a Parking Partner. Volunteers will assist in directing vehicles, guiding guests safely to parking areas, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming arrival process. This role is vital to creating a safe and positive guest experience from the very beginning of their visit

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Shift Times: 5 pm - 10 pm 

Team Size: At least six (6) individuals per team.

Team Leader Responsibilities:
Each team will have a designated Team Leader who is responsible for coordinating the group. Team Leaders will meet Manager on Duty at the Missouri Barn to retrieve safety gear and instructions before the shift begins.

If a team member is unable to attend, the Team Leader will find a replacement to ensure the team remains fully staffed.

Teams Responsibilities:

Direct vehicles to appropriate parking spots.

Provide clear, friendly guidance to guests arriving and leaving the Gardens.

Maintain safety for pedestrians and vehicles in the parking areas.

Work collaboratively with your team and staff for smooth operations.

Fundraising Perk:
For every vehicle parked, $1.00 will be donated back to the nonprofit, school, or organization of your choice. Parking Partners is a great way to give back to Powell Gardens while also raising funds for your group.

Inclement Weather Notice:
Dark Forest is an outdoor event and may be impacted by weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather, the Manager on Duty will contact you directly if a cancellation is necessary. All volunteers must also be available on the designated rain dates before signing up.

Additional Perks:

Two complimentary “Admit One” passes to Powell Gardens for each volunteer shift completed (excludes Dark Forest)

Safety vests and flashlights provided.

Orientation and on-site support from Powell Gardens staff.

Help guests enjoy their Dark Forest experience by serving as a Concession Partner. Volunteers will assist with selling food, beverages, and snacks, keeping concession areas clean and stocked, and providing friendly customer service. This role is vital to creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring guests have the refreshments they need to fully enjoy their visit.

Dates:

October 17 & 18 (Rain Day: October 19)

October 23, 24, 25 (Rain Day: October 26)

October 31 & November 1 (Rain Day: November 2)

Shift Times: 5 pm - 10 pm 

Team Size: At least five (5) individuals per team.

Team Leader Responsibilities:
Each team will have a designated Team Leader who is responsible for coordinating the group.

If a team member is unable to attend, the Team Leader will find a replacement to ensure the team remains fully staffed.

Team Responsibilities:

Assist with setting up and breaking down concession stations.

Provide friendly, welcoming service to guests purchasing food and beverages.

Keep concession areas clean, organized, and well-stocked throughout the shift.

Work collaboratively with your team and Powell Gardens staff for smooth operations.

Fundraising Perk:
Each concession team shift will raise $300.00 for the nonprofit, school, or organization of your choice. Concession Partners is a great way to give back while supporting Powell Gardens and your community group.

Inclement Weather Notice:
Dark Forest is an outdoor event and may be impacted by weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather, the Manager on Duty will contact you directly if a cancellation is necessary. All volunteers must also be available on the designated rain dates before signing up.

Additional Perks:

Two complimentary “Admit One” passes to Powell Gardens for each volunteer shift completed (excludes Dark Forest).

Orientation and on-site support from Powell Gardens staff.

Looking for a fun and engaging way to spend your weekends? We’re seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help create a warm and welcoming experience for guests at Powell Gardens! Choose from one of these exciting roles:

Greeter – Be the friendly face that welcomes visitors and helps them navigate the gardens. The Marketplace and Lab Assistant – Assist with stocking, organizing, and engaging with guests in our charming gift shop and education lab.

Days: Every Friday & Saturday
Shifts: 9:00 AM – Noon & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Powell Gardens Visitor Center

Why Volunteer?

Enjoy the beauty of the gardens while making a difference Gain valuable experience in guest services and retail support Meet new people and be part of the Powell Gardens community

Arrival & Parking:
Please park in the Visitor Center parking lot and meet in the Grand Hall, where the Manager on Duty will greet you and provide instructions. If you are new to volunteering, we ask that you arrive 30 minutes early for a brief tour of the facilities.

Secure your spot today and help us create an unforgettable guest experience!