the following opportunities are for master gardeners who have completed their coursework.
volunteer with MAMGA
Master gardeners, are you looking for opportunities to earn service hours toward re-certification? Some may include digging in the dirt, while others are purely administrative. Fill out the form for whatever interests you.
Stay tuned for info on Volunteering at one of the Grant Sites for 2026
More volunteer opportunities follow!
.
Low-Impact Volunteer Opportunities for Early 2026
At MAMGA, we know that our love of gardening and our desire to give back to the community don’t fade as we get older—but our bodies sometimes need a gentler touch. That’s why we’re highlighting volunteer opportunities that are perfect for members who prefer lighter, low-impact activities.
Whether it’s sharing your gardening wisdom, helping with communications, organizing supplies, or assisting behind the scenes, there are meaningful ways to contribute without overexerting yourself. Every bit of time and talent you share makes a real difference in our gardens and for the people we serve.
Below is a list of activities where you can get involved at your own pace during the first quarter of 2026. In the March newsletter, we will include a list of low-impact volunteer activities for the second quarter.
January–March 2026
Propagating coleus, working on a stool in the greenhouse(EHV)*
Winter sowing plants for the Teaching Garden, working on a stool in the greenhouse(EHV)*
Seed starting, working on a stool in the greenhouse(EHV)*
Creating a template in Canva for plants offered at the plant sale and starting to create signs (can be done at home)
* This activity requires certification as an Extension Horticulture Volunteer (EHV). Contact Sarah Cowen soon to learn about the process for becoming an EHV at cowen.sarah@danecounty.gov.
February-April 2026
Cutting blinds to make plant labels and writing labels for seed starting annual flowers in the greenhouse (can be done at home)
Creating plant signs for plants offered in the 2026 Plant Sale using new template created in Canva (will train, can be done at home)
Extension Horticulture Volunteer (EHV) Activities:
Sorting recently donated seed packets which will be distributed to community gardens (can be done at home)
Seed starting in the greenhouse, working on a stool (March and April)
Email kallenstein@charter.net if you are interested in any of the projects that do not involve EHV status.
Email Lisa Johnson johnson.lisa@dancounty.gov if you are interested in any of the EHV activities.
Your participation—whatever form it takes—supports the success of our programs. Thank you.
volunteer at the uw ag research station
Adopt-A-Garden program
Where: UW West Ag Research Station, 8502 Mineral Point Road, Verona, Wisconsin (near West Towne Mall)
When: Throughout the growing season
Time Commitment: 3 hrs per month minimum for Adopt-a-Garden program; 10 to 25hrs for the growing season
Ready to volunteer? Contact Janet Hedtcke
For more info visit their website.
VOLUNTEER IN THE COMMUNITY
UW-Extension is in the process of building a volunteer portal. It is accessible through the Online Reporting System (ORS). Organizations in need post details about opportunities and who to contact. It is not fully populated yet, but this should be an excellent source in the future.
