Come Work the Land. Leave Part of Yourself Here.
Volunteering at Respite Ranch is not a transaction — it is a relationship. When you give your time and hands to this land, the land gives something back. Every person who shows up to pull weeds, plant seeds, or tend the orchard becomes part of the living story of this place.
Apply to VolunteerThe Ranch Runs on Community
Respite Ranch is a 508(c)(1)(A) faith-based ministry — which means it is sustained not by a corporation, but by a community. Our volunteers are not helpers on the margins; they are co-creators at the center. The garden grows because of them. The orchard is tended because of them. The healing happens because of them.
"You don't have to be a farmer to volunteer here. You just have to be willing to show up."
Five Ways to Serve
Give Your Time, Receive Healing
For those who cannot afford our programs but are willing to contribute their labor, our work-exchange program offers full or partial program access in exchange for regular volunteer hours. Work-exchange participants become some of our most beloved community members — showing up week after week, learning the land, and growing alongside it.
4–8 hours per week
Typical work-exchange commitment, flexible around your schedule.
Full program access
Earn access to any program or retreat offered during your exchange period.
Mentorship included
Work-exchange participants receive one-on-one mentorship from our farm and healing team.
What Volunteer Hours Make Possible
Volunteer hours contributed each year
Of food and medicine grown by volunteers annually
Regular community volunteers and work-exchange participants
Of programs made possible in part by volunteer labor
Apply to Volunteer
Fill out the form below and our volunteer coordinator will reach out within 3–5 business days to welcome you and match you with the right opportunity.
Not Ready to Apply Yet?
Come to a Saturday community garden day first — no application needed, just show up at 8 AM. It's the best way to experience the ranch and meet the community.