Do you love nature, history, and giving back to your community? If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be part of The Fells volunteer community, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more. We’ll introduce the John Hay Estate, review the 2026 calendar of events, and highlight the many ways you can get involved this season. Everyone is welcome—bring a friend and explore the ways you can join in. The session meets at the Gatehouse, and while advance registration is encouraged, walk-ins are always welcome. To learn more or to RSVP, please email outreach@thefells.org. 

Join us for a Volunteer Welcome Reception, open to all new and returning volunteers at The Fells. You will have the chance to meet and mingle with fellow Fells volunteers and learn about the 2026 season of exciting events. We’ll review the many ways you can get involved this season and highlight some of the fun and rewarding opportunities for volunteers. Everyone is welcome - bring a friend. The reception will be held in the Pavilion (weather permitting), and while advance registration is encouraged, walk-ins are always welcome. For more information or to RSVP, please email outreach@thefells.org

Fells volunteers are invited to a special appreciation trip to Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home located in Manchester, Vermont. It will be a relaxing day exploring the historic home and gardens of Robert and Mary Lincoln, timed perfectly to view the peonies in full bloom. The outing includes roundtrip coach bus transportation, a catered box lunch enjoyed at picnic tables on the grounds, and a full day to take in the history and scenery of this remarkable estate. The cost is $10 per person, and volunteers may register by emailing info@thefells.org; space is limited, so early RSVP is encouraged. Please register by May 29 and bring your 2026/2027 Fells Membership card. This special trip is our way of expressing gratitude for all you contribute to The Fells! 

1:00pm-2:30pm Main House Docent Training 

2:30pm-4:00pm Garden Docent Training 

This event welcomes all returning and new docent volunteers at The Fells. Join us for an overview of docent opportunities in both the Main House and the Gardens for the 2026 season. We’ll share training materials and tour scripts, walk through the essentials of serving as a docent, and conclude with a sample tour. The session will be led by the Fells Education and Landscape staff and will provide full training for volunteers interested in leading guided tours of the house, the gardens, or both during the upcoming season. Advance registration is requested by emailing info@thefells.org 

In honor of Diane Wheaton, the Diane M. Wheaton Endowment Fund for Volunteers was established to provide financial support for volunteer-related activities. A special event is held at the end of each season to thank and recognize Volunteers. This event provides an opportunity for the volunteers, staff, and board members to gather, socialize, and convey the well-deserved appreciation. Volunteers are recognized with a variety of annual awards, including the Volunteer of the Year Award. Please join us for a special evening of appreciation and gratitude with hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and conversation on the Veranda, in the Gardens and dinner in the Pavilion. Reservations are required by emailing info@thefells.org 

This event was made possible by a generous donation from Martha & John Robb.