Volunteering at Garden of Eden

In 2016, 2,881 volunteers provided 43,215 hours of service to the J. This is just one snapshot of the difference our volunteers make to our programs, services and community. Our volunteers have served meals at Covenant Place, harvested fresh produce from our Garden of Eden, supported our day campers and much, much more. Last year alone, volunteers provided a $996,970.05 impact to the J.

The dedication and willingness of our local community to jump in and give their time to the J speaks loudly of its kindness and commitment to tikkun olam/repairing the world.

“People who are willing to give of themselves are typically wonderful, caring and kind people,” said Stephanie Rhea, Volunteer Coordinator at the J. “We are so lucky here at the J to be surrounded by an entire community of these people.”

The J accepts all types of volunteers – individuals, groups, corporate service days, youth groups and school groups. While most opportunties require a minimum age of 16, we do have some limited options for children as young as 10 with an adult. Our volunteer program also supports school community service hours, A+ Program service hour requirements, and more. Contact us to find out how we can work with you or your group!

One great way to get involved with the J on an ongoing basis is by helping serve Shabbat dinners at Covenant Place. Our volunteers interact with the Covenant Place residents, serve dinner, help tidy, and make a roomful of new friends.

“Our Shabbat dinner volunteers help make everything run smoothly,” said Rhea. “Diners love interacting with volunteers, and we love supporting such a great mission.”

Our volunteer experiences, like Shabbat dinners, help you do good in your community, and you’ll feel good while you’re doing it.

Upcoming ways you can get involved at the J:

  • Labor Day Run & Kids’ Triathlon: Teens and older. On September 4, volunteers are needed to serve as timers, course marshals and transition and aid area assistants. Volunteer as a group or individually.
  • Covenant Place Dinner Volunteers: Adults or children ten years and older with an adult. Be a part of this rewarding experience as you help serve Shabbat meals to seniors. It’s like having a whole group of wonderful grandparents! It will be a meaningful experience for you and an enjoyable one for the seniors. Fridays (ongoing), 3:30-4:30pm set up and/or 4:30-6pm serving.
  • Garden of Eden: Teens and older. The Garden of Eden grows fresh food for the Harvey Korenblatt Jewish Food Pantry from March through November.  It produces almost 2 TONS of fresh produce for the local food pantry.  We have work days on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays starting at 8am, as well as special projects at various times.

View a full listing of upcoming volunteer opportunities, click here. Don’t see the exact opportunity that’s perfect for you? Contact Stephanie Rhea, Volunteer Coordinator, at 314.442.3164 to see how you can get involved.