The Cambridge Recycling Division seeks volunteers who love kids and love recycling! Volunteers help Cambridge Public School students sort their breakfast or lunch cafeteria waste into the correct bins. Volunteers guide students on proper separation, share helpful tips to make sorting easier, and thank students for “getting rid of it right.”

Lunch shifts are typically two hours from approximately 11am to 1pm. Breakfast shifts are 25 minutes before school begins. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least two shifts when signing up.

No experience is necessary; training will be provided. All volunteers must pass a CORI background check.

For more information, email recycle@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4836.

Sign up here

Here’s a message from a volunteer who went to a school cafeteria once a week:

One of the volunteer experiences closest to my heart is working with elementary school children in Cambridge in their school cafeteria — helping them sort their leftovers into liquids, recycling, trash, food waste, and untouched food that can be shared. It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly powerful.

I get to spend time with children (which I love!), while also supporting something I deeply care about — protecting our planet and reducing food waste. Watching kids learn these habits early, and take pride in doing the right thing, is truly inspiring. They are growing into thoughtful, responsible stewards of our planet — and being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding.

If you care about sustainability, education, and making a real impact, this is a wonderful way to contribute. Imagine saving our Earth, one plate at a time… alongside our children, learning and growing together.

If this speaks to you, consider joining the Cambridge Department of Public Works in building a zero-waste future — together 💚