Opportunities From: Powell Gardens Kansas City's Botanical Garden

Help create an unforgettable first impression at Powell Gardens' 30th Annual Festival of Butterflies! As a Greeter, you will be one of the first friendly faces guests see as they arrive. Volunteers will welcome visitors, distribute festival maps, answer general questions, and help direct guests to exhibits, activities, and key locations throughout the Gardens.

This role is ideal for volunteers who enjoy meeting new people, providing excellent customer service, and helping guests have a fun and memorable experience. Your warm smile and helpful guidance will play an important part in making every visit special.

Shift Times:  9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m

                       1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m

Volunteer Instructions:

Park in the main Visitor Parking lot. Upon arrival, check in with the Manager on Duty in the Grand Hall of the Visitor Center to sign in and receive your volunteer lanyard. Lockers are available in the basement break room to securely store personal belongings during your shift. At the end of your shift, check out with the Manager on Duty to receive two (2) Admit One passes as a thank-you for volunteering.

Help create a welcoming shopping experience for guests during Festival of Butterflies! As a Marketplace Assistant, you will support the retail team by helping keep the Marketplace organized, inviting, and fully stocked throughout the day.

Volunteers may greet guests as they enter the Marketplace, assist them in locating merchandise, answer basic questions, restock displays, straighten shelves, bag purchases, wrap breakable items, and provide general support wherever needed. Your assistance helps ensure guests enjoy a smooth and pleasant shopping experience while allowing staff to focus on customer service during one of our busiest seasons.

This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy interacting with people, staying active, and working as part of a team. No retail experience is necessary—just a friendly attitude, attention to detail, and a willingness to lend a helping hand.

Shift Time:  10:00 a.m - 2:00 p.m.

Volunteer Instructions:

Park in the main Visitor Parking lot.Upon arrival, check in with the Manager on Duty in the Grand Hall of the Visitor Center to sign in and receive your volunteer lanyard.Lockers are available in the basement break room to securely store personal belongings during your shift.At the end of your shift, check out with the Manager on Duty to receive two (2) Admit One passes as a thank-you for volunteering.

Help inspire curiosity and discovery in the Plant & Insect Lab during the Festival of Butterflies! As a Plant & Insect Lab Assistant, you will help create a fun, engaging, and welcoming learning environment where guests of all ages can explore the fascinating world of plants, insects, and nature.

Volunteers will welcome visitors, assist families and young children with hands-on activities, answer basic questions, and encourage guests to interact with educational exhibits. Additional responsibilities may include helping facilitate activities, monitoring activity stations, restocking supplies, and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe space throughout the day. Your enthusiasm and support will help guests make meaningful connections with the natural world while creating a memorable festival experience.

This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy working with children and families, have a passion for nature and science, and love encouraging learning through hands-on exploration.

Shift Time:  9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Volunteer Instructions:

Park temporarily in front of the Visitor Center and check in with the Manager on Duty in the Grand Hall to sign in and receive your volunteer lanyard.After checking in, move your vehicle to the Missouri Barn parking area and walk to the Education Building.At the end of your shift, check out with the Manager on Duty to receive two (2) Admit One passes as a thank-you for volunteering.

Help protect one of the most magical experiences at Powell Gardens! As a Vestibule Monitor, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our live butterfly exhibit and helping us comply with USDA regulations. Before each shift, volunteers are required to complete a brief training video.

Stationed at the Conservatory exit, you will assist guests as they leave the exhibit by checking clothing, bags, wheelchairs, strollers, and other personal items for any butterflies that may have landed on them. Your careful attention helps prevent accidental butterfly escapes, protecting these delicate creatures and allowing Powell Gardens to continue offering this unique experience for years to come.

This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy interacting with guests, educating visitors about butterfly conservation, and making a meaningful contribution to the success of Festival of Butterflies.

Shift Times:  9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m

                       1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m

Volunteer Instructions:

Park in the main Visitor Parking lot.Upon arrival, check in with the Manager on Duty in the Grand Hall of the Visitor Center to sign in and receive your volunteer lanyard.Lockers are available in the basement break room to securely store personal belongings during your shift.This position is located outdoors in a screened, covered vestibule. Water will be provided, but bringing a personal refillable water bottle is highly recommended.Before your first shift, you must complete the required vestibule training video.At the end of your shift, check out with the Manager on Duty to receive two (2) Admit One passes as a thank-you for volunteering.

Help keep one of Powell Gardens' most beautiful display gardens looking its best! Volunteers in this role will work alongside the Horticulture team to maintain and improve garden beds throughout the Perennial Garden.

Tasks may include:

Assisting with the restoration and maintenance of garden bedsRemoving weeds and unwanted plant materialPreparing planting areasPlanting and caring for seasonal and perennial plantingsGeneral garden beautification and upkeep

This opportunity is perfect for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, getting their hands in the soil, and helping create a beautiful experience for Garden guests.

Qualifications

No previous gardening experience is required. Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors and performing light to moderate physical activity.

What to BringClosed-toe shoesComfortable clothing suitable for working in the dirtSunscreenBug sprayWater bottleSchedule

Volunteer shifts are available from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This is a recurring opportunity with flexible scheduling.

Arrival Instructions

Please park in the employee parking lot and meet the Horticulture team in front of the Horticulture Cabin at the start of your shift.

Questions?

For questions regarding this opportunity, please contact Daniel Wicks at dwicks@powellgardens.org.

Help inspire creativity and imagination at Powell Gardens during Summer Art Camp: Dragons! Volunteers will assist the Education team with children’s camp activities, help prepare materials, support indoor and outdoor activity stations, and create a fun, engaging environment for campers throughout the week.

This opportunity is ideal for volunteers who enjoy working with children, are energetic, patient, and excited to support hands-on learning experiences inspired by dragons and the natural world.

Volunteer Requirements:

Must pass a background screening Comfortable working with children Able to assist in both indoor and outdoor environments

What to Bring:

Sunscreen Water bottle Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for indoor and outdoor activities

Shift Information:

Dates: June 9 - June 12; July 7 – July 10 Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM each day

Arrival Instructions:
Please meet in the Education Building at 9:00 AM to assist with setup before campers arrive.

Availability:
Limited to 2 volunteer spots.

Note:
This is a private volunteer opportunity intended for approved volunteers who are eligible to work with children.

Volunteer Contact: Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org

Support a lively seasonal series at Powell Gardens by assisting with bar back operations for Mimosas & Dragons. Volunteers in this role help ensure smooth beverage service by supporting the bar team with restocking, setup, cleanup, and general assistance throughout the event.

This is a hands-on outdoor bar environment where volunteers play an important role in keeping service running efficiently and helping create a positive guest experience.

Event Dates & Times

May 31 June 14 & 28 July 12 August 9 & 23 Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM each date

Check-in Location

Grand Hall at 10:00 AM

Volunteer Responsibilities

Assist bartending staff with bar back duties Restock supplies and assist with beverage service setup Maintain cleanliness and organization of bar area Support breakdown and cleanup after service

Requirements

Must be 21 years of age or older Comfortable assisting with beverage service operations Outdoor bar environment

What to Bring

Sunscreen Water bottle Comfortable attire for outdoor work conditions

Staff Lead/Point of Contact: Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org

Thank you for helping us keep the Mimosas & Dragons experience running smoothly for our guests!

Love working outdoors and getting your hands dirty? Join the Horticulture team in Powell Gardens' beautiful Woodland & Stream Garden! Volunteers in this role help maintain one of the Garden's most natural and serene spaces while supporting the health and beauty of the landscape.

Tasks may include:

Removing weeds and invasive plant speciesClearing debris from streams to maintain proper water flowPlanting containers and naturalized garden areasBlowing and clearing sidewalks, decks, and pathwaysAssisting with branch and tree removal using hand toolsOperating equipment such as string trimmers (training available for interested volunteers)

This opportunity is ideal for volunteers who enjoy physical outdoor work, learning about native landscapes, and contributing directly to the care of the Gardens.

Qualifications

Ability to perform general gardening tasks such as weeding, planting, and debris removalExperience using landscape equipment is helpful but not requiredWillingness to learn safe equipment operationAbility to identify and avoid poison ivy is beneficialMust be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions

What to Bring

Closed-toe shoesLong pants and tall socksWater bottleBug spray or tick repellentHat or headband (recommended)

Schedule
Flexible scheduling may be available after initial training. 

Arrival Instructions
Please enter through the employee entrance located to the right of the main gate and park near the former Horticulture Building. From there, you may walk to the Woodland & Stream Garden using the paved path past the Perennial Garden. New volunteers may arrange to be picked up and transported to the work area.

Questions?
Contact Trent Loggins at tdloggins@powellgardens.org or 660-238-5987

Get hands-on with some of Powell Gardens’ most unique and fascinating plants! Volunteers will assist with replanting, staking, and dropping orchids, as well as moving and organizing heavy containers in our greenhouse. Additionally, volunteers will help maintain the enchanting Stumpery Garden. Tasks may include light weeding, planting, and general upkeep to enhance this whimsical space.

Schedules for this opportunity are the following weekly or bi-weekly mornings:

Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon (Special Collections)Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon (Stumpery Gardens)Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon (Special Collections)

 Productions Greenhouse staff:

Brent Tucker, lead horticulturist (btucker@powellgardens.org, 816-683-4839) 

Items to bring:

Water Favorite gardening tool if you own one (not required; tools will be provided)Close-toed shoesSunscreen

Join the Horticulture team in helping keep Powell Gardens vibrant and thriving! Volunteers will assist with essential garden care tasks including watering flowers in beds and containers throughout the Perennial Garden, Gatehouse areas, and highway plantings. Additional tasks may include light weeding and general garden maintenance as needed.

This is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and contributing directly to the beauty and health of the gardens.

Schedule: Flexible (between 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

What to Bring Sunscreen Water bottle Snack Bug spray Closed-toe shoes Arrival Instructions

Upon arrival, please report to the Perennial Garden and check in with either Tommy Loggins or Dan Hicks.

Point of Contact

Tommy Loggins
tloggins@powellgardens.org

Join the Horticulture team at Powell Gardens and help care for the beautiful Fountain and Dogwood/Magnolia walk areas throughout the Gardens. Volunteers will assist with a variety of hands-on horticultural tasks including weeding, mulching, fertilizing, watering, pruning, planting, and occasional tree or shrub propagation projects.

This opportunity is perfect for volunteers who enjoy working outdoors, getting their hands dirty, and helping maintain stunning garden spaces for all guests to enjoy.

Volunteer Requirements:

Comfortable bending, standing, and working outdoors for up to 4 hours with breaks Able to work in heat and humidity

What to Bring:

Closed-toe shoes Garden gloves Sunscreen Water bottle Bug spray

Schedule:
Recurring morning shifts are available weekly or biweekly on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Staff Contact: Matt Hockaday | mhockaday@powellgardens.org

Arrival Instructions:
Volunteers will meet at the Visitor Center. If the main gate is closed, please enter through the business entrance and drive around Dam Road.

Help create memorable experiences for families visiting Powell Gardens' Colonial Farms! As a U-Pick Farm Guide & Support Volunteer, you'll serve as a friendly ambassador, helping guests navigate the farm and enjoy a successful harvest experience.

Volunteers will assist visitors by identifying which fruits, flowers, and produce are ripe and ready for harvest, demonstrating proper picking techniques, and answering basic questions about the U-Pick experience. Depending on interest and qualifications, some volunteers may also have the opportunity to assist with tram transportation to and from the fields.

In addition to guest engagement, volunteers will support general field operations, which may include harvesting berries, deadheading flowers, removing fallen fruit, and helping maintain a welcoming and productive farm environment.

Qualifications

Must be 18 years of age or olderComfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditionsValid driver's license

What to Bring

Closed-toe shoesHat or sun protectionWater bottleSunscreen

Arrival Instructions
Please check in with the cashier at the main entrance of Colonial Farms when you arrive for your scheduled shift.

Schedule
Recurring shifts are available:

Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Opportunity runs through October 25

Staff Lead Contact Information
Jessica Tinder | jtinder@powellgardens.org

Join us in helping guests connect with where their food and flowers are grown while supporting one of Powell Gardens' most engaging seasonal experiences!

Horticulture Team Volunteer

Volunteers supporting the Horticulture Team play a hands-on role in caring for and growing the Gardens. Tasks may include pulling weeds, planting seasonal flowers and plants, preparing soil mixtures, mulching, and assisting with general garden maintenance projects. Activities vary by season and weather, but all work helps keep the Gardens healthy and beautiful for our guests.

No prior gardening experience is required—training and guidance will be provided on site. This opportunity is ideal for volunteers who enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Schedule
This opportunity is available on a weekly or bi-weekly basis during the following morning shifts:

Tuesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wednesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Thursdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

What to Bring

Closed-toe shoes (required)

Water bottle

Garden gloves (if you have them)

Cushion or kneeling pad for comfort during weeding (optional)

Sunscreen and bug spray, as needed

Staff Lead
Christian Van Matre | cvanmatre@powellgardens.org | 913.645.9889

Development & Membership Volunteer Support

This opportunity includes project-based volunteer shifts that are added as needs arise. Volunteers may assist with a variety of Development and Membership projects, such as event preparation, mailings, data organization, or other administrative support tasks.

Opportunities will be posted when projects become available, and volunteers may sign up for shifts as they are added. If you do not see any dates currently listed, it simply means there are no active opportunities at this time.

Staff Lead: Amanda Tempel | atempel@powellgardens.org | 816.683.4840

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, and Fridays. Even if a field trip isn’t scheduled, we’d love to have you join us to help prepare for the next one!

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:

WaterSnacks or LunchTennis or closed-toes shoesSunscreen, if needed

Looking for a fun and engaging way to volunteer? We’re seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help create a warm and welcoming experience for guests at Powell Gardens! 

Greeter – Be the friendly face that welcomes visitors and helps them navigate the gardens.

Days: Every Friday & Saturday
Shifts: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 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.

Help us create an unforgettable guest experience!

Horticulture Team Volunteer

Volunteers supporting the Horticulture Team play a hands-on role in caring for and growing the Gardens. Tasks may include pulling weeds, planting seasonal flowers and plants, preparing soil mixtures, mulching, and assisting with general garden maintenance projects. Activities vary by season and weather, but all work helps keep the Gardens healthy and beautiful for our guests.

No prior gardening experience is required—training and guidance will be provided on site. This opportunity is ideal for volunteers who enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Schedule
This opportunity is available on a weekly or bi-weekly basis during the following morning shifts:

Monday: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wednesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

What to Bring

Closed-toe shoes (required)

Water bottle

Garden gloves (if you have them)

Cushion or kneeling pad for comfort during weeding (optional)

Sunscreen and bug spray, as needed

Staff Lead
Eric Perrette | eperrette@powellgardens.org | 816.807.5166

Horticulture Team Volunteer

Volunteers supporting the Horticulture Team play a hands-on role in caring for and growing the Gardens. Tasks may include pulling weeds, planting seasonal flowers and plants, preparing soil mixtures, mulching, and assisting with general garden maintenance projects. Activities vary by season and weather, but all work helps keep the Gardens healthy and beautiful for our guests.

No prior gardening experience is required—training and guidance will be provided on site. This opportunity is ideal for volunteers who enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Schedule
This opportunity is available on a weekly or bi-weekly basis during the following morning shifts:

Tuesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wednesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Thursdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

What to Bring

Closed-toe shoes (required)

Water bottle

Garden gloves (if you have them)

Cushion or kneeling pad for comfort during weeding (optional)

Sunscreen and bug spray, as needed

Staff Lead
Eric Perrette | eperrette@powellgardens.org | 816.807.5166

Join us for a hands-on opportunity to explore and support the natural ecosystems of Powell Gardens! Volunteers will assist with a biological survey by identifying and counting insects, observing wildlife, and assessing soil types across designated areas of the property. This important work helps us better understand and care for our environment.

Dates & Time: All Sessions 1 pm - 4 pm

April 19 May 17 June 7 July 19 August 16 September 20

What to Expect:
This is an outdoor, active volunteer opportunity that may involve walking on uneven terrain, standing for extended periods, and exploring wooded or natural areas. No prior experience is necessary—guidance and instruction will be provided on-site.

What to Bring:

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (long pants and closed-toe shoes recommended) Sunscreen Bug spray Refillable water bottle Snacks, if needed

Additional Information:

This opportunity is family-friendly; however, all participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions, including potential exposure to ticks, poison ivy, and other natural elements. Volunteers under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. In the event of severe weather, participants will be notified of any changes or cancellations.

We’re excited to have you join us in this meaningful effort to better understand and protect the diverse ecosystems at Powell Gardens!

Location:
Midwest Center for Regenerative Agriculture at Powell Gardens

Staff Leads: Cassandra Everly | cassandra@agoodoak.com

                      Jacob Canyon | Jacob@agoodoak.com

Join our Horticulture team for hands-on work in the greenhouse! This active, behind-the-scenes volunteer opportunity plays an important role in supporting plant production and daily operations.

What You’ll Do:
Volunteers will assist with a variety of tasks, including unloading trucks, setting up tables, cleaning work areas, and helping move plant materials. Tasks may vary slightly each shift depending on greenhouse needs.

Schedule:
This is a recurring opportunity with limited spots available (2–3 volunteers per shift):

Tuesdays: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Thursdays: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (morning shift only)

Qualifications:

Ability to move flats of plants between racks and tables Comfortable lifting and carrying lightweight items Willingness to assist with cleaning and general greenhouse tasks

Important Details:

This opportunity is outdoors Not family-friendly (best suited for individual adult volunteers)

What to Bring:

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, etc.) Water Gloves

Upon Arrival:
Please check in at the front desk and ask for a greenhouse lead team member.

Interested in volunteering with a group?
Team registration is available for this opportunity.

Point of Contact: Dakota Lepker | dlepker@powellgardens.org