KPU Farm Volunteer Programs

Volunteering at the farm offers participants the opportunity to connect with nature, stay active, learn about local and sustainable food systems, and contribute to the community. This year, we are offering volunteer shifts through our annual Community Growers Program, as well as the Youth Garden Club, a 7-week program designed for youth.

Participants often have access to (and are encouraged to take home) free organic produce and flowers. Volunteers may also request a reference letter after completing 20+ hours of volunteering.

Community Growers Program

The Community Growers Program is our annual volunteer program, open to participants of all ages and backgrounds. Volunteers primarily assist with harvesting in our production fields, caring for public spaces like the Learning Garden and Native Plant Food Forest, and supporting workshops and events.

Hands-on tasks may include harvesting, seeding, transplanting, weeding, pruning, shoveling, and general site upkeep. Event and workshop support can involve engaging with the community through activities and games, assisting with event setup, and sharing information about the farm. All levels are welcome; no prior gardening or farming experience is required.

Volunteers are asked to commit to attending their chosen farm shift each week, with the understanding that occasional absences for vacations or other commitments are expected and can be communicated to the coordinator. Those unable to commit to weekly shifts can still stay involved by joining the volunteer email list through the form below to receive updates about one-off opportunities, including community events, workshops, and additional shifts. Volunteers in any program may also be invited to support events if interested.

If you’re unsure about committing, you’re welcome to try one shift on a drop-in basis. Please email kpufarm@kpu.ca with the subject line “Drop-in Volunteer Request” to arrange this.

2026 Schedule

Mondays, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
April 13 – September 28
(excluding April 27, May 18, August 3, September 7, September 14)

Mondays, 1:30–4:00 PM
June 1 – August 31
(excluding August 3)

Youth Garden Club

This is the first time we are offering this program for youth. The Youth Garden Club is a low-barrier, 7-week summer program for ages 16–24, offered in collaboration with the City of Richmond, with minor schedule adjustments possible as we approach launch. Participants will primarily engage with the garden and food forest while gaining hands-on experience in gardening, farming, food systems, and community engagement. Youth will take part in a variety of activities in both the garden and the broader community and are encouraged to contribute to and attend our mid-August youth event, Sunset Snacks, if they are able.

2026 Schedule

Wednesdays, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
July 8 – August 19

Applications

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but, once the program reaches capacity, we may not contact additional applicants. Please allow up to two weeks for a response to your application. If you have not heard from us after two weeks, feel free to follow up at kpufarm@kpu.ca.

If you have any questions prior to starting the program, please reach out to the Outreach Coordinator at kpufarm@kpu.ca with your questions or to set-up a 15-minute call.

Location

KPU Farm at the Garden City Lands in Richmond, B.C. (5500 Garden City Lands Rd).

View KPU Farm Map

Please fill out the form below to apply for our Volunteer Program