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How It Works
Connecting clients, volunteers and partners is at the heart of what we do.
From our humble beginnings over 35 years ago when Horticultural Therapy Association volunteers Anne Shires, Kathleen Ciemiega and Henry Llewellyn, received a $1,500 grant from Ku-ring-gai Council to assist local seniors to adapt their gardens to “easy care”, we have grown into the community-focused organisation we are today.
We work with around 800 clients a year and have over 300 active volunteers to help perform our work. Connecting clients, volunteers and partners is at the heart of what we do as we work together to care for our older community.
“I have this lovely bunch of people who come to my garden to chat. They’re interesting (to speak with) and kind and generous with their time.”
Kay, Easy Care Gardening Client
Become a Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Easy Care Gardening.
Without them we simply could not do the work that we do. No gardening experience is needed to be a volunteer. If you’re reasonably active and willing to help and have a “can-do” teamwork attitude, then you’re a perfect fit!
You will receive all the necessary training, all expenses are reimbursed, and all tools and necessary materials are provided.
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Become a Client
We support local seniors living in their own homes who are no longer able to maintain a safe and sustainable garden.
Easy Care Gardening (ECG) operates under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and is a subsidised service, with clients contributing towards the cost of any CHSP service they receive. Costs vary and are provided on application with the service.
You will experience meeting our incredible volunteers and connecting with them through shared learning as they help you learn new skills or re-learn skills needed for keeping a safe and sustainable garden.
More information can be found in our Need Support Page or our Client Handbook.
Need Support? Client HandbookFAQs
How can I use your service?
All new clients will first apply to Easy Care Gardening through the Department of Health and Aged Care. Simply contact this free call number 1800 200 422. After we receive your referral a Wait List letter will be posted to you.
Do you service other suburbs outside the Hornsby Shire, Ku-ring-gai, Hunter’s Hill and Ryde local government areas (LGAs)?
Unfortunately, no, only the suburbs within those 4 LGAs.
Can I also have my lawn mowed?
Currently, we are unable to offer lawn mowing to new clients or recommend lawn mowing contractors.
How much does the service cost?
Costs vary and are provided on application with the service. Easy Care Gardening (ECG) operates under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). ECG is a subsidised service and clients are expected to contribute towards the cost of any CHSP service they receive. For more information contact us on (02) 9983 1644.
Why do you use volunteers?
Back in 1988 three community-spirited women started to assist an elderly neighbour with her garden. Soon enough the idea spread and after 6 months volunteers were looking after the gardens of 30 clients.
From these simple beginnings, Easy Care Gardening grew into the organisation it is today, servicing over 1,000 gardens a year.
We have over 300 volunteers and this is what sets Easy Care Gardening apart from other gardening services. A service delivered by volunteers has a different “feel” to it. Our volunteers are here because they want to make a positive difference. They bring energy, generosity, and community spirit with them every time they garden.
As a result of utilising volunteers our services are incidentally more affordable, as savings on labour costs can be passed on to our clients.
What mandatory checks and training do the volunteers need?
Before someone becomes a volunteer of Easy Care Gardening, they undergo a standard onboarding process. We run through things like volunteer and client rights, Workplace Health and Safety, and Privacy and Confidentially.
Due to the nature of our work in aged care, we must run a police check on all new volunteers, and repeat the check every three years. New volunteers get on-the-job orientation when they first sign up. We also offer ongoing training opportunities to all our volunteers, at no cost, as they become available.
How often can I volunteer?
How often you volunteer is up to you! Some people come for one day a year as part of their company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) days. Others volunteer multiple times a week and stay with us for years. We understand that volunteering needs to fit in with the other things in your life. We appreciate every hour of volunteer time that is generously contributed.
Where can I volunteer?
When completing your volunteer application, please remember to state your preferred LGA or suburb and the coordinators will confirm the available place in your chosen location.
What experience do I need?
No experience is necessary and all tools are supplied.
About Us
We connect our volunteers in the community through assisting our local seniors. We help enable residents to maintain safe and sustainable gardens.
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Get Involved
Get involved with Easy Care Gardening by volunteering, becoming a client, joining our student programs or our community initiatives.
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