Since The Samaritan Women was formed in 2007, we have been led and supported exclusively through volunteer efforts. Most of our volunteers may start from faith-based groups organizing service days, but after their first visit, they become captivated by the work God is doing in this place and become regular volunteers. Then they, in turn, start inviting others. That’s how it works.
We are committed to being a ministry where all persons are welcome and all labors are appreciated. It’s especially exciting to see people of different cultures, backgrounds and denominations working side-by-side for a greater purpose. And it’s also fun to give someone a job that he or she would never imagine doing, like the pharmacists who demolished the furnace, or the youth who learned how to do drywall.
There’s no shortage of need. See the Volunteer Opportunities below and consider how you could jump in and help us realize our vision.
FARM VOLUNTEER
WHAT: As you might imagine, there’s no shortage of work to be done on a farm, but it’s hard work. Depending on the season, you may be breaking up soil, preparing beds, sifting compost, seeding trays, planting, weeding, harvesting, or cleaning produce. Expect to get your hands and clothes dirty by the end of day.
WHEN: Our outdoor farming season is March through October and our indoor farming season is November through March. Open volunteering is usually on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, but it’s always good to let us know you’re coming. On the weekends we often have scheduled groups volunteering as well. We work rain or shine so please come dressed for the weather.
WHO: Farm volunteers can be at any age; however, middle school age and up is preferred. Middle School-age groups need to have at least one adult supervisor for every 5 students. High school youth to chaperone ratio can be 10:1.
WHAT ELSE: Volunteers should bring their own gloves, hats, sunglasses, bug spray or sunscreen, etc. Closed-toe shoes are required regardless of season (no flip-flops, sandals, Crocs, or clogs allowed). Long pants are recommended. Bring your own water bottle, snacks, and lunch, as needed. Large groups should check with us prior to volunteering as we may need you to bring additional tools or supplies.
LANDSCAPING VOLUNTEER
WHAT: With 23 acres, we are always doing some form of landscaping. Depending on season and special projects, this work may include: mowing, trimming, weeding, planting, pruning, raking, chopping firewood, laying mulch, or snow removal.
WHEN: Landscaping work is on-going throughout the year. Contact us for information about the work we have planned for your scheduled volunteer date.
WHO: With appropriate adult supervision, youth (age 14 and up) may be used for landscape volunteering.
WHAT ELSE: Volunteers should bring their own gloves, head and eye protection, bug and sun protection. Closed-toe shoes are required (no flip-flops, sandals, Crocs, or clogs allowed). Long pants are strongly recommended. For some projects or at certain times of the year, we may ask you to bring additional tools. Please check with us before coming.
RENOVATIONS VOLUNTEER
WHAT: We can always make use of skilled and semi-skilled volunteers who have a passion for home renovation work. If you are a licensed contractor in any trade, please contact us before volunteering (we’ll be SO excited!). Semi-skilled volunteers will be involved with such tasks as demolition, sheetrock installation and drywall, priming, painting, wood refinishing, and an occasional full construction project
WHEN: Volunteering to work on building renovations requires advance scheduling so we can be sure to have all the necessary supplies on-hand. Please contact us and schedule your date for volunteering.
WHO: Because of the access to hand and power tools and chemicals, renovation volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. For certain projects, youth volunteers can be used.
WHAT ELSE: Volunteers should bring their own gloves, head and eye protection, etc. Closed-toe shoes are required (no flip-flops, sandals, Crocs, or clogs allowed). Long pants are recommended. It is also prudent to bring a dustmask and/or kerchief.
SKILLED LABOR:
We have a wide range of projects calling for skilled work. Many of these are 1 or 2 day jobs that can be done at your convenience. Please contact us if you are able to provide any of the following:
- ceramic tile repair to historic fireplaces
- donation of fabric and sewing of window treatments
- drywall installation and repair
- installation of security lighting system
- licensed electrician
- licensed plumber to do rough-in work
- linoleum installation
- maintenance and repairs on Kubota tractor
- painting requiring scaffolding (ceilings, hallways and exterior)
- refinishing hardwood floors
- regrading and reseeding of up to 5 acres
- repair of wood flooring (patching)
- reupholstry of antique furniture
- slate roof repair
- tree company to remove several large trees
- videographer to create segments for YouTube/Tangle postings
Do you have other talents and skills? Let us know; we might need those too!
UNSKILLED LABOR:
There’s plenty to do for those who just like to work. Here are some of the ways you can lend a hand:
- decorative and farm gardening (planting, weeding, mulching, harvesting)
- maintenance landscaping (mowing, trimming, raking)
- priming and painting
- cutting, hauling, and stacking wood
- clearing land and forging walking paths in the woods
- stream & pond restoration
- supporting fund-raisers and TSW events
- even some occasional demolition!
Companies and communities of faith can embrace our efforts through volunteer support by participating in various fund-raisers, Clean Up Days or Gardening Days” etc. Send us an email about your areas of interest and availability.