Volunteer Opportunities
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 labor is 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.
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
- creation of exterior signage
- donation of fabric and sewing of window treatments
- drywall installation and repair
- installation of security lighting system
- licensed electrician to create new electrical plan
- licensed plumber to create plumbing plan and do rough-in work
- linoleum and installation
- maintenance and repairs on Kubota or Ford 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the times for volunteering?
The ideal duration for volunteering is 4 hours in a single day. Volunteer shifts on Saturdays are either 8:30am - 12:30 pm or 1:00pm - 5:00pm. Schedules for weekdays vary. Please arrive on time. We'll take 10-15 minutes to give you an overview of TSW and the day's tasks and then set you to work. Plan 30 minutes at the end of your shift to help put away tools and clean up.
What is the work like?
Farming is hard work. Depending on the season, you may be preparing beds, shifting compost, planting, harvesting, tending vegetables or cleaning up the land. We work rain or shine so please come prepared for the weather. Expect to get your hands and clothes dirty by the end of day.
Our renovation work is likewise messy. You may be taking down a wall, plastering a new one, painting, scraping, sweeping, hauling trash. We also have jobs for those who prefer lighter tasks, like polishing, cleaning, sorting, etc.
What should I wear?
Closed toe shoes are required for all jobs, during all seasons. Sandals & flipflops are not permitted for safety reasons. For most jobs, you'll want to wear long pants, and it is wise to dress in layers. If your group does not bring rain gear, bring a box of garbage bags and we can make some quick "weather wear".
We have some work gloves, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own. Also, it is wise to bring some type of hat or visor and eye protection.
What do I need to bring?
We have an assortment of sunscreen and bug sprays, but if you are sensitive or particular, bring your own and label it with your name.
If you have a medical condition such as asthma or anaphylaxis, please bring your inhaler or epipen and tell your group leader of your condition before working in the field.
Unless we have asked you to bring particular supplies or tools, we will provide them.
What about lunch and water?
For each group of 5 people, we ask that you donate a case of bottled water, OR each member of your team should bring his/her own water bottle. There is potable water on-site for refills.
Groups and individuals are asked to bring their own lunches/snacks and be responsible for taking all of your food garbage with you. Please note: there is very limited space for refrigeration. If you require refrigeration, please bring your own cooler.
We do have a lovely BBQ pit where our groups often make burgers, brats, and dogs. You are welcome to use it; please bring your own charcoal and lighter fluid, as needed.
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