Get Involved

577 is a gathering place that inspires meaningful and diverse connections, promoting open-hearted generosity and sharing. See how you can get involved today.

Volunteers

Volunteers play a vital role in the evolution of 577 in positions such as building docents, on-site educators, front desk helpers, resource center sorters and garden helpers.

Teach

We believe education strengthens the fabric of our community. 577 is a curiosity combustor, an igniter of creativity. Instructive, Stimulating. A place for life-long learning and taking care of the land. Share your passion and knowledge with the community.

If you have an idea of a class or skill you would love to share, please email cstose@577foundation.org with details.

Community Gardens

The Community Gardeners are an important part of 577; their gardens have created a pleasant environment for visitors, an education in organic growing and an inspiration to future gardeners. Each year, our gardeners grow and donate hundreds of pounds of organic produce to local food banks—truly embodying a sense of community.

50 garden spots are available on a first come basis. Organic gardening advice, basic gardening tools, hoses, leaf mulch, compost (when available) and seasonal gardening classes are provided.

Job Board

Diversity and equal employment opportunities are integral to all of our activities. We hire and promote based on an individual’s qualifications, skills, ability to do the required work, merit and overall potential. We do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, disability, military status or any other classification protected by law.

Current Openings

Summer Staff  (2 openings)

We are hiring summer staff members to keep The 577 Foundation beautiful and welcoming. This team works alongside our year-round properties team to tend the gardens and grounds, welcome visitors, and steward our mission through hands-on projects. If you care about the environment and community gardens and you’re looking for a physical job in a beautiful outdoor setting, this is it!

QUALIFICATION AND REQUIREMENTS
Due to the nature of this work, candidates must be in excellent physical condition and have experience working outdoors in all types of weather, including heat and rain. Candidates for this position must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds, climb ladders, work at heights of up to 18 feet and carry out the physical job requirements involving kneeling, bending, twisting, and standing. Must work well independently and as a team and must be able to accept supervision. Must have a valid driver’s license. We prefer candidates with experience in organic
gardening, groundskeeping, landscaping, and general maintenance.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform basic landscaping duties including general planting, water, weeding, etc.
  • Perform general maintenance and cleaning including assisting in facility cleaning, room set-up, etc.
  • Function as an overall part of the staff team

View the full job description including hours, pay rate, and contact information by clicking the button below.

After reviewing the application materials, please send cover letter and resume to khirsh@577foundation.org

Curiosity Shop Clerk (2 openings)

The Welcome Center and Curiosity Shop is a unique space at 577 that encourages visitors to unplug and discover new curiosities. Transformed from a once-read book center into a successful creative reuse shop in 2022, the shop’s goals are to disrupt the pipeline of old books and unwanted art supplies from going to landfills, redistribute them back into the community, inspire creative and environmentally sustainable behavior, and provide educational programs and affordable materials to the community.

We seek two well-rounded, open-minded individuals who can provide quality service to visitors, community instructors, volunteers, and colleagues. This staff member’s primary responsibility will be to assist in the operations of the Welcome Center and Curiosity Shop.

QUALIFICATION AND REQUIREMENTS
Candidates for this position must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Must have a valid driver’s license. High school diploma or equivalent required. Experience in retail, customer service, and sales preferred. Excellent interpersonal skills; able to maintain positive relationships with visitors, staff, volunteers, and community contacts. Possess strong clerical and administrative procedures and systems. Demonstrated experience and proficiency within a PC environment and with using Microsoft Office Suite.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Customer Service Responsibilities: Responsible for knowledge of the facilities and meeting guest objectives for their use. Welcome and direct visitors, customers, and donors. Answer phones. Respond to all inquiries as independently and fully as possible. Direct and expedite requests.

Retail Responsibilities: Open and close the Welcome Center and Curiosity Shop following 577’s procedures. Assist in processing of donations. Maintain and track shop inventory, keeping shelves stocked, displays neat and orderly. Process sales transactions (including sales tax) on cash register, accepting cash, credit card, and checks.

View the full job description including hours, pay rate, and contact information by clicking the button below.

After reviewing the application materials, please send cover letter and resume to khirsh@577foundation.org. 

Join us on March 20 for a Day of Giving to celebrate Virginia’s birthday! Join us and make a gift to protect, preserve, and support the evolution of this magical place. Won’t you help us reach our goal?

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