Frequently Asked Volunteer Questions

What do volunteers do at Forgotten Harvest?

There are several volunteer opportunities at Forgotten Harvest. If you do not see one of the opportunities listed below on our Events Listing Page, please contact the Volunteer Manager, Marci Fitch, at mfitch@forgottenharvest.org or 248-967-1500 x 125 for more information.

Warehouse Re-Pack – Volunteers help to re-pack surplus perishable food into family size portions which are then delivered to over 250 emergency food providers.

Harvesting – Volunteers are needed July-November to help harvest fresh produce at our Forgotten Harvest farms.

Ride A Long - Ride along with one of our drivers and see first hand how our harvesters make a difference every day in the lives of those in need of food. You must be able to lift at least 30 pounds and be at least 18 years of age.

Food Shows – Volunteers collect food products and samples left over from the exhibit, vendor tables and booths at the end of the show.

Administrative – On an as needed basis, we also have administrative tasks such as receptionist, preparing mailings and data entry.

Speakers Bureau– Volunteers speak on behalf of Forgotten Harvest to various organizations to inform the community, motivate individuals and generate support for Forgotten Harvest.

Special Events – We have several special events throughout the year where volunteers are needed such as Stuff the Truck, Busch’s Season of Caring, Wine Tasting Fundraisers, Comedy Night, and many more.

Are there any age restrictions to volunteer?

Volunteers must be at least 12 years of age to volunteer. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.

What is the registration process to volunteer?

Individuals can either sign up on-line at forgottenharvest.org or contact the Volunteer Manager, Marci Fitch to register. Groups must register by contacting the Volunteer Manager. We do require you register in advance. We hate to turn volunteers away, but this policy ensures that there is an appropriate number of volunteers per shift for proper supervision, efficiency and safety. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation via e-mail with all of the details including location, MapQuest, parking, dress code and other event details.

Do I need to complete a Volunteer Waiver Form before I volunteer?

Yes. All volunteers must complete the Volunteer Waiver Form before they will be allowed to volunteer. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver. If you sign up on-line, you can electronically sign the waiver by accepting our Terms and Conditions. For all others who do not sign up on-line, the waiver will be attached to your confirmation and you can complete it before you come or do so when you arrive.

Can I complete my school service hours at Forgotten Harvest?

Yes. You must schedule your volunteer time through the Volunteer Manager or on-line at forgottenharvest.org. If you are under the age of 18, you must have an adult chaperone with you. You must bring in any paperwork and have your hours documented and signed by the Volunteer Coordinator each time you volunteer. We can provide you with a letter at the end of your service if required.

What if I have physical limitations?

Please let the Volunteer Manager know of any physical limitations you have before you volunteer. Our staff will work to accommodate you.

What should I wear?

If volunteering for Warehouse Re-Pack please wear comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes. Please do not wear high heels or jewelry. The warehouse does get chilly, so please bring along a sweatshirt or jacket. Upon arrival , we will provide you with a hair net, apron and gloves.

For all other events, the dress code will be detailed in your volunteer confirmation.

Is there a place to lock up my personal belongings?

No. Please leave all your personal belongings and valuables locked in the trunk of your car.

I don't feel well, can I still volunteer?

For the safety and health of our recipients, if you are sick (even with a mild cold, sore throat, sniffles etc.) or have any of the following illnesses you will not be allowed to volunteer: Hepatitis A; Shiga toxin-producing E.coli, Shigella; Salmonella Typhi; Norovirus.

Where do I park?

You can park in our lot in the front of the building or on the South side of the building. Do NOT park in any of the other business lots surrounding our building or in the back of our building near the Forgotten Harvest trucks and loading dock. Our parking is limited and we strongly encourage carpooling for large groups.

What is the maximize number of volunteers I can bring for a Group?

Depending on availability --

We take groups of up to 50 for our Warehouse Re-Pack.

We take groups of 40-100 for harvesting at our farms.