Grow With Us: Become a Part of the Fertile Earth Community
Whether you have an hour to spare or want to host a drop-off hub, there's a vital role for you in South Florida's zero-waste mission.
Join the Compost Crew!
Join our community of dedicated soil enthusiasts and plant lovers to make a real difference in South Florida's sustainability efforts. Whether you're passionate about composting, want to learn from experts, or simply enjoy working outdoors, there's a place for you at Fertile Earth.
Types of Opportunities
- Compost Processing: Help turn and process compost, working directly with our vermicomposting systems
- Community Outreach: Assist at events, farmers markets, and educational programs
- Event Setup: Help prepare for workshops, tours, and community gatherings
- Farm Maintenance: Support day-to-day operations and farm upkeep
Benefits of Joining the Compost Crew
- Learn directly from Dr. Lanette Sobel and our expert team
- Receive free soil and vermicompost for your garden
- Meet lots of nice people. Watch your kids playing with the Earth!
- Gain hands-on experience with vermicomposting
- Make a tangible impact on South Florida's zero-waste goals
Requirements
- Must be 18+ or accompanied by an adult
- Follow all safety guidelines and instructions
- Wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes
- Commit to scheduled volunteer sessions
Typical Schedule
Compost Crew meets every Friday from 4-6PM, and once a month before each workshop.
Learn & Explore: Workshops and Farm Tours
Join us for educational experiences that deepen your understanding of composting, soil health, and sustainable living. Our workshops and tours are designed for all skill levels, from curious beginners to experienced gardeners.
Farm Tours
Visit our farm and see firsthand how we transform food waste into premium vermicompost. During your tour, you'll:
- Explore our worm beds and composting systems
- Meet our team and learn about our process
- See the complete cycle from food scraps to finished soil
- Ask questions and get expert answers
Why visit? There's no better way to understand the impact of your composting efforts than seeing the process in action. Tours are perfect for individuals, families, and groups.
Workshops
Learn from the experts in hands-on educational sessions:
- Vermicomposting 101: Master the basics of worm composting at home
- Building Healthy Florida Soil: Learn soil science principles from Dr. Lanette Sobel and discover how to improve your garden's soil health
- Advanced Composting Techniques: Take your composting knowledge to the next level
- Garden Applications: Learn how to use vermicompost effectively in your garden
Frequently Asked Questions About Involvement
No. We welcome all skill levels and provide on-site training. Just bring a willingness to learn! Our team will guide you through all tasks and ensure you feel comfortable with your responsibilities.
We ask for a commitment of at least 2-4 hours per session. For regular volunteers, we appreciate a commitment of at least one session per month. For event help, we ask for a minimum of 3 days notice so we can plan accordingly.
Yes, we offer specific educational tours designed for children and school groups. These tours are tailored to be age-appropriate and engaging. Please view our Workshops & Tours Calendar for details and to schedule a group tour.
Yes! Volunteers under 18 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult guardian or parent. This ensures safety and provides a great opportunity for families to volunteer together.
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that you don't mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes are required. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat if working outdoors. We provide all tools and equipment needed for tasks.
You can view our Calendar of Events & Workshops to see upcoming dates and register. Some events may require advance registration, so be sure to check the calendar regularly for new opportunities.