Volunteer with The Nature Connection and make intergenerational connections through nature this summer!

The Nature Connection is seeking high school students who are 16+ years old to volunteer with us at our therapeutic nature-based programs this summer. Join us in sharing the joy and wonder of seasonal natural materials with program participants in nursing homes, memory care units, and day programs for elders and adults with disabilities. 

Teen volunteers help create meaningful one-on-one connections by facilitating conversation, sharing observations and curiosities about nature, supporting expressive arts and sensory activities, and listening to the stories and experiences of participants. You’ll not only see and feel how these programs build confidence, comfort, and connection, you’ll be part of making those moments happen. This is a great opportunity for those who have a strong appreciation for nature, enjoy connecting with people, and want to share that curiosity and joy with others. 

The Details

Teen volunteers will be required to attend training at the end of the school year and observe a program before starting. The training will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025 from 10:00am – 3:00pm at our office in Concord, MA. Pizza lunch will be provided during the training. Training is mandatory in order to volunteer. Training will be eligible for community service hours depending on your school’s guidelines.  

Once training is complete, we are asking our teen volunteers to attend 3 – 4 programs a month over the summer break. Each program is a 2-hour commitment. Our programs are held at our partner program sites in Concord and throughout Middlesex County. Please note that programs occur during the week on Tuesdays – Fridays during the day, usually sometime between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. All volunteers are responsible for transporting themselves to and from our office for training and the program sites for volunteering. 

Please Note: Due to insurance and liability requirements, teen volunteers are not permitted to work directly with The Nature Connection’s therapy animals. Teen volunteers will instead support our therapeutic nature programs by helping participants engage with plants, seasonal natural materials, sensory experiences, and expressive arts activities while building meaningful one-on-one connections with elders and adults with disabilities.

If you are interested in joining us, please click the link below to fill out the application. Applications will be accepted beginning April 25, until all spots are filled.  

Fill out the Teen Volunteer Application here. 

Reach out to volunteer@nature-connection.org with any questions regarding this opportunity.