Opportunities From: Powell Gardens Kansas City's Botanical Garden

Do you love nature? Enjoy working with kids? Join our Garden Guides team and help bring the magic of the gardens to life for young learners!

Field Trips: Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays (Mornings)

Must be comfortable walking up to 1½ miles per trip

What You’ll Do:

Lead K-12 students on hands-on, nature-based learning adventures.Inspire curiosity about plants, ecosystems, and the great outdoors.Participate in monthly one-hour Zoom training sessions to expand your knowledge.Provide valuable support as an Assistant Garden Guide (optional role available).

Why Volunteer?

Make a lasting impact on future nature lovers.Gain experience in environmental education.Be part of a passionate and supportive community!

If you're passionate about nature and love working with children, we’d love to have you!

Sign up today and help shape the next generation of nature explorers!

Leadership contact information:

Julie Wise, Coordinator, Education, jwise@powellgardens.org

Items to bring:

Water Tennis or closed-toed shoes Sunscreen, if required

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.

Help us keep the Children’s Garden blooming and beautiful! As a volunteer, you’ll be part of a cheerful crew that makes this special space welcoming for curious young explorers and their families. Tasks include:

Weeding garden beds

Planting flowers and veggies

Mixing soil

General garden upkeep

It’s hands-on, rewarding work that helps spark joy and wonder for every child who visits.

When & Where
Shifts meet at the Education Barn on:

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

8:00 a.m. – Noon

What to Bring

Garden gloves (if you prefer your own)

Water bottle

Sunscreen

Bug spray

Your favorite weeding tool (optional; we have plenty to share)

A cushion for sitting or kneeling – it makes weeding much comfier!

Garden Lead
Madeline Scharig  | 816-529-7956 | mscharig@powellgardens.org

Come ready to get a little dirty, enjoy some fresh air, and help create a garden kids will remember!

Do you have a green thumb—or just love getting your hands in the dirt? Join us as a Garden Specialist and help Powell Gardens bloom!

Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday | 8 AM – Noon

A staff lead will be assigned once we coordinate the days that work best for you.

What Will You Do?
Our stunning gardens don’t maintain themselves (though we wish they did!). We need passionate plant lovers to assist with:

Planting & Pruning – Help our gardens thrive by tending to seasonal blooms and greenery.Weeding & Mulching – Keep our beds beautiful and weed-free while learning expert gardening tips!Watering & TLC – Show our plants some love with proper care and hydration.

Items to bring; Not required 

Water Favorite weeding toolClose-toed shoesGarden glovesCushion to sit/kneel on to make weeding more comfortable, if neededSunscreen, if neededBug Spray, if needed

Perks of Digging In:
Enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of the gardens.
Learn from horticulture experts and fellow garden enthusiasts.
Make a hands-on impact in keeping Powell Gardens lush and vibrant!

No experience? No problem! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a newbie looking to grow your skills, we’ll help you plant roots in a rewarding volunteer experience. Sign up today and let’s get growing! 

When: Every other Wednesday
Time: 9:00 AM – Noon
Where: Stumpery Garden (Shade Garden)
Staff Lead: Brent Tucker, Lead Horticulturist

Get your hands dirty in one of Powell Gardens’ most whimsical and enchanting spaces—the Stumpery Garden! Volunteers will assist with ongoing seasonal maintenance, planting, weeding, and other garden care tasks to help this magical shade garden thrive.

Whether you’re a seasoned garden helper or just looking to learn more about woodland plants and design, this is a peaceful and rewarding way to support the gardens.

Already helping out in the Stumpery Garden? There’s no need to sign up again—thank you for your continued support!

What to Bring:
• Garden gloves (we’ll have extras if needed)
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen & bug spray
• Close-toed shoes & comfortable clothing

Let’s keep this shady haven looking spectacular!

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!

Do you love birds and enjoy quiet, peaceful moments in nature? Help keep Powell Gardens’ hummingbirds and songbirds healthy and happy all summer long!

Schedule: Twice a week (flexible days during open hours)
Location: Various feeding stations throughout Powell Gardens
Staff Lead: Zoe Aber | zaber@powellgardens.org

What You’ll Be Doing:
• Mixing and preparing fresh hummingbird nectar (recipe provided)
• Cleaning and refilling hummingbird feeders
• Refilling seed in designated bird feeding stations
• Taking a moment to enjoy the sights and sounds of grateful garden visitors with wings!

What We Provide:
All supplies, tools, and materials will be provided—you just bring a love for wildlife and a bit of care.

Time Commitment:
Two times per week minimum (during extreme heat); we’ll coordinate based on your availability.

This is a perfect opportunity for nature lovers, early birds, or anyone looking for a peaceful and purposeful task that supports our ecosystem and delights garden guests.

Let’s keep the garden buzzing, chirping, and full of life—sign up and give back to our tiniest guests with the biggest personalities! 

Love nature? Passionate about conservation? Join our Conservation Crew and help care for Powell Gardens’ beautiful landscapes and trails!

Thursdays | 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM

What You’ll Do:

Remove invasive plants to help native species thrive.Maintain our scenic 1- and 3-mile trails for visitors to enjoy.Support a variety of conservation projects—the possibilities are endless!

Why Volunteer?

Make a lasting impact on the environment.Get outside, stay active, and enjoy fresh air.Work alongside fellow nature lovers and conservation experts.

What to Bring:

Water to stay hydrated.Close-toed shoes for safety.Garden gloves for comfort.A cushion for kneeling or sitting, if needed.Sunscreen for those sunny workdays!

Staff Lead - Ryan Joseph at rjoseph@powellgardens.org

Meet Location:

Meet at the Horticulture cabin to start your shift.

Help us protect and preserve the beauty of Powell Gardens—sign up today! 

Do you have a sixth sense for spotting an intruder in a sea of perennials? Does yanking out weeds give you an oddly satisfying thrill? If you enjoy peaceful hours outdoors, elbow-deep in garden beds, Weed It and Reap is calling your name.

We're on the hunt for a few valiant volunteers who aren't afraid to face the fiercest dandelions or most stubborn thistles. Join our mission to restore order, beauty, and breathing room to our garden beds. No armor required—just gloves, grit, and a good attitude!

Days & Times:
Flexible! Let us know when you’re available, and we’ll match you with a bed that needs your magic touch.

Staff Lead:
Zoe Aber | zaber@powellgardens.org

Arrival & Parking:
Meet at the Visitor Center, where Zoe will brief you on your weeding quest and point you to the plants in need.

What You'll Do:

Identify and remove weeds from assigned areas

Help give our plants the space they need to thrive

Enjoy some therapeutic garden time while soaking up nature

What to Bring:

Water bottle

Sunscreen & bug spray

Gloves and your favorite weeding tools (optional—tools are available if needed)

Closed-toe shoes and long pants for comfort and tick defense

Ready to wage war on weeds?
Sign up and become part of the garden’s secret defense team—quietly pulling, restoring, and making Powell Gardens look its best.

Are you a lover of leafy spaces and tidy places? Do you take pride in a beautifully organized environment where every fern frond and watering can is exactly where it belongs? If so, we have the perfect role for your keen eye and green thumb!

As a Plant Housekeeper, you’ll assist Lead Horticulturist Eric Perrette in maintaining three of our most cherished growing spaces: Greenhouse #9, the Garden Galleries, and the Conservatory. With your help, these areas will remain clean, organized, and looking their absolute best for guests and staff alike.

What You'll Do:

Light tidying and sweeping

Organizing pots, tools, and displays

Assisting with basic plant care tasks as needed

Helping create a visually stunning, serene plant environment

Days Available:
Choose your own adventure! Volunteer one day per week on your choice of:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, or Sunday

Time:
Flexible! You and Eric can coordinate the timing that works best for both of you.

Staff Lead:
Eric Perrette
eperrette@powellgardens.org

Arrival & Parking:
Meet Eric at the Horticulture Cabin, where he’ll give you your weekly checklist and guide you through your garden zones.

What to Bring:

Water bottle

Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes

Gloves (optional—some will be available if needed)

Weather Watch:
Since you’ll be inside or under cover, this role is perfect rain or shine! But if you need to shift your day or have questions, feel free to reach out to Eric directly.

Help us keep our most enchanting growing spaces tidy, beautiful, and ready to wow. Sign up and join the green dream team today!

Do you love nature, sustainable farming, and working with the land? Join our Regenerative Agriculture Crew and be part of an exciting movement to restore and revitalize the Midwest’s ecosystems!

Volunteer Opportunities Available Year-Round, Seven Days a Week!
Flexible Schedule—Get Involved When You Can

 

What You’ll Do:

Agroforestry – Help plant and care for trees that support sustainable farming. Natural Beekeeping – Assist in pollinator-friendly beekeeping practices. Conservation Grazing – Support efforts to manage landscapes naturally with grazing animals. Hands-on restoration work – Participate in planting, soil health improvement, and habitat reconstruction.

Why Volunteer?

Be part of the cutting edge of regenerative agriculture. Learn sustainable land management practices from experts. Help restore native ecosystems and support regional biodiversity. Get outside, work with your hands, and make a real impact!

What to Bring?

Water to stay hydrated. Close-toed shoes for safety. Work gloves for comfort. Long pants to protect from scratches and critters. Sunscreen for those sunny workdays!

Interested? Join us in shaping the future of sustainable land stewardship at Powell Gardens. Sign up today! 

Are you a fruit tree fanatic, a native plant pro, or a perennial powerhouse? Maybe you’re a tree whisperer, an invasive species sleuth, or a trail-taming champion? If you have a passion for a specific area of gardening, we need YOU!

We’re Looking for Experts to Help With:

Fruit Trees – Pruning, care, and best practices for orchard success.Perennials & Native Plants – Ensuring our gardens flourish with resilient, regionally appropriate beauty.Trees – Health, maintenance, and long-term care for our leafy giants.Invasive Species Management – Identifying and controlling plants that don’t belong.Trail Maintenance – Keeping our scenic paths safe and enjoyable for all.Specialty Rock Garden Care – Helping our unique rock garden thrive!

Have another area of expertise not listed? Let us know! We’re always looking to grow our knowledge and would love to hear how you can help.

Why Volunteer Your Expertise?

Share your knowledge and help shape the gardens.Make a lasting impact on conservation and sustainability.Connect with fellow plant enthusiasts and Powell Gardens staff.Enjoy time in nature while doing what you love!

If you have experience in any of these areas and want to put your skills to work in a meaningful way, we’d love to hear from you! Let’s grow something amazing together.

Interested? Contact us by responding to this opportunity to discuss how you can get involved!

Are you ready to make an impact while keeping Powell Gardens looking its best? Join our Campus Services team and take on a variety of hands-on projects that are essential to keeping our grounds and spaces in top shape! Projects include:

Bench Restoration: Help breathe new life into our benches so visitors can rest in style.Sweeping & Mopping: Keep our indoor spaces sparkling clean.Room Renovations: Assist with small projects to refresh and improve our spaces.Trash Can TLC: Clean and maintain trash cans because even the small details matter.Power Washing: Wash away the grime and let our facilities shine.Organizing: Help us bring order to chaos with your organizational wizardry.
...And so much more!