City Slicker Farms

Frequently Asked Questions about Volunteering

When and where can I volunteer in the Community Market Farms?

Our farms are located in West and North Oakland, and have open hours every week. Please see our hours and locations or go here to learn more about individual farms. Just pick a time and location that is convenient for you and drop in.  You are welcome to come check out all of our sites and volunteer at the one you like the most.   

How long are volunteer shifts?

You can stay for as long as you like during our open hours, whether that means 30 minutes or all day.  It's up to you!

Do I need to make a commitment to come every week?

No.  You are welcome to drop in as often as you like, whether that is twice a week or once every six months.  If you are interested in a making a commitment to volunteering regularly, and in a more intensive learning experience, you might be interested in an internship.  

Should I call or e-mail ahead of time?

No. There is no need to contact us ahead of time, please just drop in during open hours. You only need to contact us ahead of time if you are bringing a group - learn more about group visits here.

What kinds of things do volunteers in the farms do?

That depends on what is needed on the day you volunteer.  Tasks can include prepping and planting beds, transplanting seedlings, building and maintaining compost piles, watering, weeding, pest management, mulching, chicken care, harvesting and more.  You will be trained on how to do any tasks that you haven't done before.

How can I volunteer building backyard gardens?

Backyard garden builds are in or near West Oakland, and are generally scheduled for Saturday mornings from 10:30 to 2pm.  We send out an e-mail each week to volunteers letting them know exactly where and when that weekends build will be.  If you would like to be added to this e-mail list, please write us at info[at]cityslickerfarms[dot]org and ask us to add you.  

What kinds of things do volunteers at backyard gardens builds do?

Volunteers work with our staff and members of the household receiving a backyard garden to assemble garden boxes, move compost from our truck into the boxes, and plant out and water the new garden beds.  

Do I need to have gardening experience to volunteer? 

Absolutely not!  We welcome all levels of gardening experience.  Our staff will provide training for all new volunteers, whether they are new to gardening or just new to City Slicker Farms.  If you are an experienced gardener you might be interested in becoming a Backyard Garden Mentor.  Please read on to the next question to learn more!

What do volunteer Backyard Garden Mentors do?

Mentors are matched with participants in our Backyard Garden Program.  Mentors commit to volunteering for at least one year to provide quarterly follow-up visits and technical support to one or more households in our Backyard Garden Program.  We ask that mentors have gardening experience and attend semi-monthly mentor meetings.

How can I become a Backyard Garden Mentor?

To learn when we are recruitng mentors and when we are hosting mentor trainings, please sign up on our mailing list or check the jobs section of the website.  In order to become a mentor, you must attend the mentor training.

What should I wear?

Wear clothing and shoes that can get dirty!  We also recommend wearing a hat and closed toed shoes.  We can sometimes provide you with gardening gloves, but if you have your own you are welcome to bring them.

Do I need to bring anything?

Please bring water, and if you are planning on volunteering for a long time or through lunch, bring food as well.  You do not need to bring any gardening tools, but if you have hand tools that you like you are welcome to bring them along.

Can I get school credit or hours through Project 22 for volunteering with City Slicker Farms?

We are generally happy to work with your educational institution to help you get credits for volunteering with us.  We are also happy to work with volunteers looking to receive community service hours through Project 22.  Please make sure you have all of the necessary paperwork and understand the requirements for your program, and then contact us to discuss the details.  

How can I bring a group or class to volunteer?

Please see our group visits and service learning page.  

If you have other questions, please contact us at 510-763-4241 or by email at info[at]cityslickerfarms[dot]org. Thank you and we hope to see you soon!