Massachusetts Horticultural Society

We’re excited to welcome you to Massachusetts Horticultural Society and our fantastic team of volunteers!

This orientation session is designed to give you a well-rounded introduction to our available opportunities, the property, and what we expect from our volunteers. Our goal is to help you feel confident and informed that this is a great fit before you begin signing up for volunteer sessions.

We have reserved one hour for orientation, and we will do our very best to stay within that timeframe — we know many of you have busy schedules.

During our time together, we will:

• Spend the majority of the session walking the gardens and exploring key areas of the property. We’ll discuss the various volunteer positions available, where they take place, and what you can expect in each role. Along the way, we’ll share background information about the garden so you leave with a deeper understanding of the space — and a few fun tidbits, too.
• Provide an overview of our volunteer system. We’ll walk you through how to find upcoming sessions, sign up, what to do if you can’t attend, how we communicate new opportunities to volunteers, and more!

You’ll also head home with background information on the history of MHS and the Elm Bank property so you can better understand the mission you’re becoming part of.

Please dress appropriately for the weather, as much of our time will be spent outdoors walking the garden. We go rain or shine unless severe weather is expected.

Please meet us at the Admissions Booth at the main entrance to the garden. There is a large parking lot right at the entrance, and you’re welcome to park there.

Garden at Elm Bank
900 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482

Turn into the drive at 900 Washington Street and proceed over the bridge. Turn right (one-way road) and follow the road past the large parking lot and soccer fields. At the T intersection, turn left — the main parking lot will be on your left-hand side.