Volunteerism is at the core of ELFA, as all of its members are volunteers. We believe that strong communities require the participation of many members, each bringing different assets to the table. Given the current high rate of unemployment in Elkhart, we have been experiencing even greater interest in volunteering in our programs from neighbors who have lots of time to invest in gardening and educational initiatives. More ownership and responsibility, and through this, more civic engagement at a local level, are created as individuals and communities give of their own time and diverse resources; this principle is foundational in the thriving of ELFA’s vision.
There are many roles to fill, and many ways that you can help. Volunteer hours are needed! From digging in the dirt to making phone calls to donating materials, your support is needed and appreciated.
If you would like to get involved with ELFA, please contact Nicole Bauman at 536-o225
Here are a few ways that you can help out:
ELFA Wish List:
- growing lights
- planting trays and pots
- potting soil
- garden tools: shovels, rakes, hoes, hand tools
- stakes, tomato cages, chicken wire
- rope/twine
- tools for measuring, building, etc.
- trellises
- building materials for raised beds, arbors, cold frames, etc.
- season extension materials
- ground covers
- old bed sheets (frost protection)
- mulch material
- benches
- wind chimes
- fountains
- hauling services (use of trucks, trailers)
- volunteer hours: participating in mulching, planting, singing, dancing, connecting with neighbors, educating on neighborhood history, cooking, food preserving, making phone calls, helping to seek out donations, harvesting, celebration-planning, leading workshops, teaching classes, praying, sharing ideas, seed-saving, skill-sharing, composting, playing with children, story-sharing, encouraging, etc.
- garden hoses
- irrigation equipment (hoses, large barrels for catching rainwater, etc.)
- seeds (a wide variety, preferably organic, local, native, heirloom)
- plant starts (ex. tomato, pepper, broccoli, etc.)
- fruit trees/berry bushes/shrubs
- mushroom kits
- patio bricks for paths and edging beds
- outdoor furniture for a sitting area
- bird and bat houses
- art projects/sculptures/skills to add to beauty of space
- finished compost
- soil amendment products
- wheelbarrow
- buckets
- educational materials (books, curriculum, etc)
- office/administrative supplies (printer paper, printer, stamps, laptop, etc.)
- someone who can build an outdoor brick oven!
- paints/materials for making educational signs
- bike cart (for hauling tools and harvest to work on other plots, or for mini market days)
For more information about Elkhart Local Food Aliance, please contact Nicole Bauman at 536-o225
