Is there a volunteer org for seniors needing home gardening services?

Question

would like to do light gardening for seniors in the Blacktown or surrounding area

Answer 1

Depending where you live, volunteers belonging to an organization are not able to work on private property due to liability. Check with your city hall and ask if they have volunteer opportunites and does that include gardening. It's really nice that you want to help other out. I'm a volunteer coordinator for a city and have much respect for volunteers.

Answer 2

Call your local United Way, your local volunteer center (the Points of Light Foundation web site can help you find such) and local churches, temples and mosques, telling them you represent a volunteer organization for seniors and would like to provide light gardening for seniors and homebound people in your area. Have dates and times for your availability, a minimum number of people who will be available, and a list of the type of services you will offer. Also, assure those you contact that you have all of the equipment needed for this endeavor, that there is an adult who is affiliated with this group through the school (and have that person's name and contact information), that your organization is officially recognized by your school (otherwise, there may be liability issues and people may be reluctant for you to come on their property and engage in gardening), and that you will comply by city ordinances regarding the disposal of leaves, grass, etc.

When you land your first volunteering gig, take lots of photos and get a testimonial from the person you have helped. Using the photos and the testimonial in your outreach efforts will help you land even more volunteering assignments.

Answer 3

Check with your county's extension office. They usually have a Master Gardener's group and they may be able to help you out.