Volunteering at East Coast Village is an invitation to step into relationship with the land, the community, and the work that happens here. Our volunteer program supports the practical, day-to-day care of the Village, work that is essential to holding our gatherings, rituals, and seasonal programs.
Throughout the year, and especially during seasonal transitions, volunteers help tend the physical foundations of village life. This may include land stewardship, trail clearing, firewood preparation, maintenance of communal spaces, and other hands?on projects that keep the Village safe, functional, and welcoming.
What to Expect
Volunteering at the Village often involves physical, outdoor work in a rural setting. Tasks may be strenuous at times and may take place in varied weather conditions. Volunteers are asked to arrive prepared, grounded, and ready to work together as part of a team.
In return, many volunteers experience:
- Time on spirit-activiated Land
- Opportunities to build community through shared labor
- A deeper understanding of how the Village operates
- A sense of meaningful contribution to something larger than themselves
If you feel called to support the Village through service, whether for a short time or as part of a work exchange, we welcome your interest and invite you to learn more or reach out with questions.
Work Exchange Credit Program
For those who wish, volunteering may also take place through our Work Exchange Program, which allows participants to earn credit toward East Coast Village programs in exchange for their service. This option is most commonly available during pre-and post-season work weeks and may include light daily support during longer on?site programs. Work exchange is rooted in transparency, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
How It Works: The “Day-for-a-Day” System
We use a simple, transparent system to value your contribution:
• The Basic Exchange: 1 Full Day of Labor (6+ hours) = 1 Day of Program Credit (max $100/day).
• Work Timing: Most labor is completed during the Pre/Post Season.
• Flow Tasks: For multi-day events, WEP participants may also contribute approximately 1 – 2 hours per day during the event to keep the “Village Pulse” (meal prep & cleanup, etc.).
Physical Requirements & Safety
Our Village requires hearty, outdoor labor. Applicants must be comfortable with:
• Heavy Labor: Chopping, splitting, and stacking firewood; clearing trails; moving heavy objects (up to 40 lbs).
• Environment: Working outdoors in various weather conditions and on uneven terrain.
• Attire: You must bring sturdy, closed-toe work boots. The Village provides gloves and safety gear.
Contact us for information.
Scholarships
As budget allows, scholarships may be available for both in-person and online programs. To award scholarships, we rely on the generous support of our donors. When available, we are pleased to extend partial scholarships to qualified individual who meet the criteria below:
- Legal U.S. Residents, 18 yrs and older. Under 18, parent or guardian must apply.
- Demonstration of financial need including persons on disability, receiving government assistance, unemployed or income levels based on federal poverty levels. Documentation may be requested.
Contact us for information.