Volunteering is a Fells tradition. It began with a small passionate group of volunteers in 1992 who persevered hard manual labor and state and federal bureaucracies; founded the Friends of The Fells in 1996; and finally acquired ownership in 2008. Over the years the ranks of Fells volunteers has swelled to an active 150 and we are always seeking to expand this dedicated group. Fells volunteers are active, dynamic and creative and possess the skills, desire, patience and time to help further our vision of a conserved New Hampshire summer estate that exemplifies the Hay family values of land stewardship and promotes the thoughtful interaction of people and nature.

Interesting opportunities await in horticulture, interpretive programs, preservation, development and special events.

Volunteers work behind the scenes in our Gatehouse office where our small year-round staff is often in need of help with special projects. Flexible hours are available and computer skills are desirable but not mandatory.

Do you enjoy teaching or have special knowledge in horticulture or ecology? Our Education Department would like discuss with you how you might assist.

Hospitality volunteers are always in demand to assist with volunteer events, receptions and other special fund raising programs and functions.

If meeting and greeting people is your strong suit, than working in the Main House or Shop could be just for you. Open seasonally Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day, volunteers are needed to assist visitors by selling gift items and snacks in the Shop or by leading historic tours of the Main House.

Are you a "jack-of-all-trades?" We need handy men and women to help maintain our historic buildings and service our machines and equipment. Join our Tuesday morning crew or sign up to be on-call.

Do you like getting dirty and digging in the earth? There are positions for garden volunteers to assist our horticultural staff on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from April through October (or anytime in between).

Volunteers also work on special fundraising events, like our Annual Plant Sale and biennial Auction. Every other year we recruit scores of volunteers to plan, coordinate and staff our Garden Tour and Christmas at The Fells (CATF). Many volunteers are needed to hostess both of these events. Volunteers also help decorate the Main House for CATF, work in the Christmas Boutique, sell admission tickets, greet visitors and provide hospitality.

And we almost always need volunteers to help with distributing publicity posters and assisting guests with parking at functions and events both on and off site.

Not sure if you have the right skills? We provide training for all positions.

When you volunteer for The Fells you meet like minded individuals who wish to share their talents, time and enthusiasm with a worthy organization that truly appreciates all efforts. In addition, volunteers enjoy programs and events that are planned especially for them that include trips to other historic sites and gardens, special admission rates for those working certain events, invitation to an end-of-season reception and award ceremony and group outings.

All volunteers must complete an annual registration. Sign up on-line Volunteer Sign-up Form or call Mary Lou for more information. Volunteers also attend appropriate training and orientations and if not already a member of The Fells, volunteers are expected to become a member.

If you are interested but cannot attend our kick-off, just give us a call at 603-763-4789 x6 or email mlmccrave@thefells.org and we will gladly answer your questions.