There are multiple ways to give your time at any level that works with your schedule! Email us at retrieveressentials@umbc.edu to confirm current volunteer options. Below are our regular service opportunities:
Weekly Free Farmer’s Market
Every Thursday! See the current location on our Instagram @umbcretrieveressentials
Volunteer to set up, distribute food, and break down from 1:30pm to 3:15pm.
Packing Ready-to-Microwave Meals To-go
Meet at 2pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday at True Grits. Pack leftover lunch meals into to-go containers and bring them to The Essential Space in Commons 1A10. These meals support our community members who may lack access to cooking facilities and need support the most!
Gardening with RE
We are out in the garden multiple times per week, tending to tomatoes, figs, peppers, radishes, depending on the season. Join us between March and November! Email us at retrieveressentials@umbc.edu with your phone number, so we can add you into the WhatsApp group for this group.
Prac 096
What is Prac 096?
A 0 credit, P/NP course, but you’ll get a notation on your transcript indicating which track you chose. Sign up happens at the start of the semester; contact the Shriver Center at 410-455-2493 or email retrieveressentials@umbc.edu if you are interested.
The options are:
- Service: This is our on-the-ground group that does the main work of feeding our community. Fill orders, fill pre-packed bags for food zones, collect donations, and stock our mini pantries and main location, The Essential Space. You can expect to serve 30 hours (about 2 hours per week) in this position.
- Leadership: This is the group that furthers our mission on campus by driving our outreach and influencing our operations. Take the lead in a role such as Event Coordinator, Social Media Coordinator, Donations Coordinator, Sustainability Coordinator, Nutrition Coordinator, or we will tailor a position to your interests, strengths, and goals. You can expect to serve 50 hours (about 3 hours per week) in this position.
Want to volunteer with your group or org?
We likely could use your help for special events or projects. Send us an email at retrieveressentials@umbc.edu!