Community members looking to give back this fall are invited to volunteer at the Virgin Islands Justice Initiative’s fifth annual Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10, from noon to 5 p.m. at Magens Bay on St. Thomas.
Now in its fifth year, the Harvest Festival has become a popular family-friendly tradition, bringing together local businesses, farmers, artisans, nonprofit organizations, and residents for an afternoon of seasonal activities while raising awareness and support for VIJI’s work throughout the territory.
Volunteer opportunities are available for high school juniors and seniors, as well as adult community members interested in helping welcome and assist the hundreds of attendees expected at the event. Festival attractions will include a tractor hayride, pumpkin patch, farmers market, youth performances, community fair, adult and youth vendors, a Kid’s Zone, and fall-themed photo opportunities.
According to VIJI Executive Director Attorney Casey Payton, volunteers play an important role in making the annual event a success while supporting programs that strengthen communities across the Virgin Islands. “The Harvest Festival is more than a day of fall fun. It’s an opportunity for our community to invest in itself. By supporting local businesses, connecting with community organizations, and volunteering their time, every person who participates helps advance our mission and expand access to justice across the Virgin Islands,” Payton said.
Proceeds and community support generated through the Harvest Festival help sustain several of VIJI’s programs, including providing free legal assistance to Virgin Islanders seeking criminal record expungements, offering pro bono legal representation to nonprofit organizations, educating young people about how criminal behavior can affect their future educational and employment opportunities, and pursuing class actions and impact litigation aimed at advancing justice, advocacy, and community empowerment throughout the territory.
Residents interested in volunteering can complete an application through the Virgin Islands Justice Initiative’s website. Additional information about the Harvest Festival, including volunteer registration and event details, is also available online.
