Frequently Asked Questions

Some volunteers using Hotmail, Outlook, Live, and MSN email accounts are not receiving messages from SignUp Genius. Please review the details and recommendations in this blog post .

We use an online sign-up system, “Sign UP Genius,” often abbreviated as SUG. As volunteer opportunities become available, you’ll receive an email with an invitation to sign up for the event. The invitation includes a description of the project, the name and contact information for the Project Coordinator, and available dates and time slots. Signupgenius.com

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Most volunteer activities are seasonal, from spring through early fall.

It's crucial to honor any commitments made through SignUp Genius by being present and fulfilling the agreed-upon volunteer role. Emergencies are the only acceptable reasons for not being able to attend. If unable to fulfill a commitment, here are four strategies to find a replacement:

1. Use the SWAP button on SignUp Genius: If there's ample time before the event, utilize the SWAP button to select an alternative day and time. Mark the person's name with whom you could swap. SignUp Genius will send emails to facilitate the swap and notify you once it's arranged.

2. Reach out to team members or mentors: Contact your team members or mentor to inquire if they can substitute for you or if they can suggest other Garden Education Volunteers to contact as potential substitutes.

3. Contact fellow volunteers for recommendations: Communicate with other volunteers signed up for the event/shift to inquire if they know someone you could call and request assistance.

4. Check the SignUp list for alternatives: Review the SignUp list to identify individuals signed up for the project on different dates. Utilize the volunteer directory to contact them and ask if they can take over your spot.

5. Contact the Project Coordinator of your Project: This information can be found in the event details on SignUp Genius.

6. Call the Program Coordinator: This information can be found in the event details on SignUp Genius.

The Resource Center and Potting Shed both use combination locks on the doors and use the same combination — 2,3,5. Learn more here.

To open the lock

1. ​Turn the deadbolt LEFT to clear the system

2. Enter the code

   • Press the 2nd button from the top​​

   • Press the 3rd button from the top

   • Press the 5th from the top

3. Turn deadbolt RIGHT to open

When you leave remember to LOCK the door

1. Pull the door closed completely

2. Turn the deadbolt to the LEFT

3. Press any button on the dial pad

4. Test the deadbolt to make sure that it doesn't turn

If you ever find the door is unlocked or won't open when you arrive OR the door will not close or lock when you leave, contact the Program Coordinator right away!

Keeping track of your time and activities is a simple but essential way to show your contributions as a Garden Education Volunteer. Put in all your hours before December 31st so they count for the year.

How to Log Hours:

• Access the State's website.

• Record your hours right after you do something or make a schedule to do it regularly.

Getting Help:

• Your mentor can help you use the website and pick the right categories for what you did.

• The SignUp Genius project descriptions also tell you what categories to use.

Learn more about continuing education here.

Email the program coordinator at rcmg@umn.edu to request a new or replacement name badge. They will submit the order and pay for the badge.

The code is usually a combination of the abbreviation "MG" and the year. For example, in 2020, you would use the code MG2020 at check out. 

This discount applies to your ticket only and will not cover guests or other people in your party. 

Please email RCMG2@umn.edu OR fill in the Contact Info Change Form.