Y.E.S. stands for Youth Education Stewards. This leadership volunteer program is designed for youth ages 11-18 to volunteer in the Bibby and Harold Alfond Children’s Garden and engage visitors in learning about the environment and enjoying outdoor landscapes.  The Y.E.S. volunteers will implement daily educational activities, read stories, complete daily chores, answer questions, and encourage and inspire kids and adults alike to play, laugh, and discover in an enchanting garden setting.

The program begins May 21 and continues through October 31, and volunteers may sign up at any time. Y.E.S. Leadership Program participants are expected to fill out an application, come to one training to assure confidence and enhance volunteer skills, and have an informational discussion on the responsibilities of this important volunteer opportunity. After training, the volunteers sign up for weekly two-hour shifts in the Bibby and Harold Alfond Children’s Garden.

Please download an application here, and see additional information about the program below.

Description of Responsibilities – Implement and assist after training in the following areas:

  • Administer easy-to-understand Discovery Stations.
  • Answer questions and inspire interest in the Children’s Garden.
  • Invite the public to join you as you implement the Daily To-Do List, such as feeding the chickens.
  • Tidy the Story Barn and other structures and check the restrooms as needed.
  • Facilitate and/or read at Storytime.


Why become involved in Y.E.S. Leadership Program?

  • Meet new people.
  • Improve communication skills.
  • Build a resume.
  • Explore career options.
  • Teach young children about nature, gardening, and Maine literature.
  • Have fun in the beauty of the outdoors!


What is expected of a Youth Education Steward?

Y.E.S. Leadership Program participants are expected to fill out an application, come to a training session to assure confidence and enhance volunteer skills, and have an informational discussion on the responsibilities of this important volunteer opportunity.

There is a training session on Sunday, June 12, 2011, from 1-4 p.m.  If you cannot attend, you can schedule a different time.

Participants will be scheduled for available two-hour shifts, once a week, from May 21 through October 31. Volunteers are expected to be respectful, punctual, and engaging. Shifts times are once per week, Sunday through Saturday at:

9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Note:  There are no afternoon shifts available on Wednesdays from May 21 through June 15. There are no morning shifts available on Wednesdays from June 22-August 31.

We would like to have a solid volunteer base going into the busy summer months so our visitors and our volunteers can have the best possible experience!