Volunteer · learn · connect
Grow with us
Volunteer days, workshops, farm tours, school programs and free surplus food — several ways to become part of the Fertile Earth family in South Florida.
Volunteer program · free
Get your hands in the soil
Work outdoors with our team, learn composting hands-on, and connect with others who care about soil and community.
What you’ll do
When
Requirements
- Learn directly from one of our experts
- Free plants for your garden
- Hands-on vermicomposting experience
- Meet lots of nice people — and watch your kids play with the Earth
Workshops & events
Hands-on and virtual learning
Zero-waste readiness for businesses, agroforestry in the field and agricultural compost production for growers.
Sat, Nov 7 · 4–6 PM · $25
Let’s Start a Food Forest
Get tickets (opens in a new tab) See current tickets (opens in a new tab)
Agricultural Compost Production
Get notified by newsletter (opens in a new tab)Farm tours
See how food scraps become living soil
Walk the worm beds and composting systems at our Homestead farm, and explore the Redland Agricultural District with our farm-hopping tours. Great for individuals, families and groups.
School field trips
The Circle of Soil
Our 4-hour program goes beyond a simple tour: students explore the biology of the red wiggler worm, the chemistry of aerobic composting and the importance of sustainable agriculture — and each takes home a seedling they planted.
- Grades 1–4
- $15 / student
- Grades 5–12
- $18 / student
- Time
- 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Chaperones
- 1 free per 10 students
Location: Fertile Earth, Homestead, FL. Dates to be announced.
Proposed itinerary
- 9:30 AMArrival and “The Science of Decay” intro
- 10:00 AMFarm tour: windrows, decomposition stages and soil health
- 11:30 AMLunch (students bring their own)
- 12:00 PM“Meet the Worms” lab: anatomy and ecosystem roles
- 12:30 PMHands-on planting workshop: from food waste to food source
- 1:05 PMWrap-up and departure
Schools · 2nd annual
Pumpkin Smash
Our program for schools to compost their pumpkins after Halloween. Students learn to remove non-organic elements from their used pumpkins and compost the rest.
The inaugural Pumpkin Smash diverted 6,850 pounds of pumpkins from the landfill — this year’s goal is to double it. Last year’s Golden Pumpkin Award went to George Washington Carver Elementary School: over 700 pounds collected with zero contamination (they removed all the glitter and candles).
2026 timeline
Sept 15 – Oct 15
October 22
Oct 31 – Nov 6
November 12
Surplus food re-distribution
Free food alerts — people first
We handle food waste for many large food producers and distributors, and sometimes we’re asked to take shipments that are about to spoil — broken trucks, failed refrigeration, cosmetic flaws. Several clients let us share that food with the community.
Individuals, food-distribution groups, charities and farms are all welcome to sign up. Our only interest is that the food finds someone to eat it.
Community gardens
The Soil-Share program
On hold: since March 20, 2025, all sale and distribution of compost and living soil has been under a County moratorium. You can still apply to join the waiting list.
When active, the program donates two yards (about 2,000 pounds) of Fertile Earth living soil twice a month to qualifying community gardens and farms — not-for-profit projects with an educational mission that welcome community participation.
Questions
Getting involved FAQ
Do I need prior composting or gardening experience to volunteer?
No. We welcome all skill levels and provide on-site training — just bring a willingness to learn.
What is the minimum time commitment?
At least 2–4 hours per session. For regular volunteers, we appreciate at least one session per month. For event help, we ask for at least 3 days’ notice so we can plan.
Are farm tours suitable for children and school groups?
Yes. We offer educational tours designed for children and school groups, tailored to be age-appropriate and engaging.
Can I volunteer if I’m under 18?
Yes — volunteers under 18 are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian. It’s a great way for families to volunteer together.
What should I bring when volunteering?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes are required. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat; we provide all tools and equipment.
How do I sign up for workshops or tours?
See upcoming workshops above, or browse tours and tickets on our store. Some events require advance registration.