How to Join and Participate with RIGC

The Roosevelt Island Garden Club (RIGC) is an all volunteer not-for-profit community gardening organization.  Membership is available only to residents of Roosevelt Island.

Effective 12/01/23 the Waitlist Application was moved offline due to the extensive length and a current 4- 5 year wait. The length has now been reduced significantly. Open plots are assigned annually on a first come first served basis according to the external waitlist. 

To join the waitlist, Roosevelt Island residents need to come out and volunteer at the garden twice. Volunteer events include Community Service Days, ad-hoc volunteer days, volunteer activities arranged by committees, or perhaps one of our a potluck picnics. 

If you are interested in volunteering to see if you enjoy working in the gardens and in order to place your name on the waitlist, please see the information below.  

Volunteer with RIGC
Students seeking community service credit, waitlist members,  or friends of RIGC can join us for Community Service Days or to help with special projects in the garden. Volunteering is a good beginning to see if you are interested in Associate status. 

​If you are interested in helping out, please email at [email protected].  

Volunteers are not required to be Roosevelt Island residents, but all volunteers must fill out a liability waver.   Click for ONLINE LIABILITY WAIVER HERE.
RIGC Associate Program
Roosevelt Island residents who have done some volunteering and are interested in even more volunteer work, may be able to opt in to become an Associate. 

Associates may help with one particular gardener who needs a temporary assist due to health issues or they may work on a committee like compost, landscape, or outreach.  There can be limited places for Associates depending on the time of year and the need.  Associates may not run for office or vote.  To check on becoming an Associate, try volunteering first, then send an email to [email protected].  
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  1. Once the application is processed, the Board will approve at one of their monthly meetings. We may contact the applicants during the process to clarify their expectations and responsibilities in the garden. The Board meets on a monthly basis usually at the beginning of the month.
  2. Once approved by the Board you will be asked to join the waitlist, register, and pay the annual fee ($25.00).
  3. We will then coordinate an on-site info session about the garden and provide you with access to the garden.​
Long time gardeners who give up their plot, but who would like to keep their key for garden access or join community events or serve on a committee may become a Legacy Associate.