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, 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

Join the team at Powell Gardens to help prepare materials for upcoming events! Volunteers will assist with hands-on preparation tasks that help ensure everything is ready for a successful event experience.

This role includes steaming or ironing canvas tote bags and cutting out name tags to attach to the bags. It’s a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy simple, detail-oriented work and want to support behind-the-scenes event operations.

Time Commitment & Shifts:
This is a flexible volunteer opportunity with multiple shift options available. Volunteers may choose from the following dates and times:

Qualifications:

No experience required Willingness to help with hands-on preparation tasks

What to Bring:
Volunteers may bring their own iron or steamer if preferred, but all necessary supplies and equipment will be provided onsite.

Location & Check-In:
Volunteers should report to the Development Office in the Missouri Barn, 2nd floor, upon arrival for their scheduled shift.

Point of Contact: Marty Arvizu | 816-683-4645 | marvizu@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 make an unforgettable evening at Powell Gardens during the Summer Solstice: Dragon Fire Adult Night event. Volunteers will assist the Events team with bar support and general event operations throughout the evening. Duties may include serving drinks, assisting as bar backs, supporting event setup and flow, and helping create a welcoming guest experience.

This is a fun, fast-paced outdoor event opportunity perfect for volunteers who enjoy working with people and being part of special events.

Volunteer Requirements:

Must be 21 years of age or older Comfortable working outdoors during an evening event Able to assist with beverage service and event support tasks

What to Bring:

Sunscreen (if needed) Water bottle Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor event work

Shift Information:

Date: June 19 Time: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Staff Contact: Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org

Arrival Instructions:
Please meet in the Grand Hall at 4:00 PM for volunteer check-in

Join the Education Department at Powell Gardens for a fun and engaging Homeschool Days program featuring a dragon-themed event! Volunteers will assist staff in supporting activity stations and helping ensure a smooth, welcoming experience for participating families.

This opportunity is ideal for volunteers who enjoy working with children in an outdoor educational setting and are comfortable assisting with hands-on programming and event logistics.

Volunteer Role Overview

Volunteers will support staff with:

Assisting at indoor and/or outdoor activity stations Helping guide and engage children through themed educational activities Supporting setup, cleanup, and general event flow Providing friendly, helpful assistance to guests and educators Schedule Date: June 25 Time: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM Type: Single-day event Volunteer Spots Available: 3 Requirements Must be able to work with children Background screening required Comfort working in an outdoor environment Important Details Location: Education Building at Powell Gardens Setting: Outdoor (with possible indoor/outdoor station rotation) What to Bring Sunscreen Water bottle Comfortable clothing for indoor/outdoor work conditions Check-In Instructions

Volunteers should arrive at the Education Building promptly at 9:00 AM to check in and receive instructions for the day.

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

This is a great opportunity to support hands-on learning experiences and help create a memorable educational event for homeschool students exploring a dragon-themed adventure day.

We are seeking volunteers (21+ only) to assist with event operations, including supporting bar service, assisting as bar backs, and providing general event support throughout the evening. Volunteers play an important role in helping ensure a smooth, fun, and welcoming experience for all guests.

This is an outdoor event with some indoor/outdoor station assignments. Volunteers should be comfortable working in a fast-paced event environment and supporting beverage service operations as needed.

Event Details

Date: June 5 Time: 4:00–8:00 PM Check-in location: Grand Hall at 4:00 PM

Requirements

Must be 21 years of age or older Ability to assist with beverage service and bar back duties Must be comfortable working an outdoor event

What to Bring

Sunscreen Water bottle Dress appropriately for indoor/outdoor conditions

We appreciate your willingness to support this exciting seasonal kickoff event and help create a memorable experience for our guests!

Staff Lead: Jamie Runyon | jrunyon@powellgardens.org

Join us at Powell Gardens as we prepare for and support our Kickoff to Summer: Dragons event! Volunteers will assist the Events team with a variety of essential behind-the-scenes and day-of tasks to help ensure a smooth and successful event experience.

This opportunity includes support across multiple areas such as event setup, assisting at activity and service stations, and event cleanup at the conclusion of each day. Volunteers should be comfortable working both indoors and outdoors and helping with hands-on event needs.

Event Details

Dates: June 5–6 Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM each day Check-in location: Grand Hall at 8:00 AM

Volunteer Responsibilities

Event setup and preparation Station support throughout the event Event breakdown and cleanup General event assistance as needed

Requirements

Ability to assist with physical setup and cleanup tasks Comfortable working indoors and outdoors

What to Bring

Sunscreen Water bottle Comfortable clothing for indoor/outdoor work

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

We appreciate your support in helping bring this exciting dragon-themed kickoff event to life!

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!

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:

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

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

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

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

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