Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about requesting help, volunteering, donating, and how our nonprofit works — explained clearly and honestly.
Looking for something specific?
🎖️ Veterans page — priority matching, verification, VA resources
🤝 Volunteer page — sign up, equipment, what to expect
📋 How It Works — step-by-step overview of the process
🎖️ Veterans page — priority matching, verification, VA resources
🤝 Volunteer page — sign up, equipment, what to expect
📋 How It Works — step-by-step overview of the process
Getting Help
Everything you need to know about requesting free volunteer yard work.
Is this really free? What’s the catch?
No catch. We are a registered 501(c)(3) public charity. Volunteers donate their time. Donations from supporters help fund operations and equipment, but they are never required from the people we serve, and they do not guarantee or prioritize service. Learn more about how we’re funded →
Who qualifies for help?
We serve older adults (65+), veterans, and neighbors facing physical limitations, disability, or financial hardship. We do not means-test recipients — anyone who needs help with yard work can submit a request. See how the process works →
How do I request help?
Submit a request through our online intake form or leave a voicemail at 862-66-MOWER. Requests can be submitted by homeowners, family members, caretakers, or case managers. The more detail you provide, the better we can match you.
How long does it take to get matched?
It depends on volunteer availability in your area. Some requests are matched quickly; others take longer. We do our best to surface every request to nearby volunteers as quickly as our systems allow. Read our Expectations of Service →
Does submitting a request guarantee service?
No. We take every request seriously, but because we are volunteer-based, we cannot guarantee timing, availability, or repeat visits. We continue recruiting nationwide and reach out whenever possible. Read our Expectations of Service →
Can a volunteer come back more than once?
In some cases, yes — depending on their availability. However, we cannot guarantee recurring service. Our model provides temporary relief, and we ask that everyone respects volunteers’ time and generosity. Read our Expectations of Service →
Do volunteers bring their own equipment?
Most bring their own. Some may not have equipment but can offer physical help. In certain cases, a homeowner’s own equipment can be used. After 10 hours of service, volunteers may qualify for a free battery-powered equipment upgrade through our donor program. Learn about volunteering →
Are volunteers professional landscapers?
Most are not — they’re everyday people donating their time. Some professional landscapers volunteer through us, but they are not contractually bound. All work is volunteer-based. Read our Expectations of Service →
What types of yard work do you cover?
Lawn mowing, leaf removal, trimming/edging, snow removal, and gutter cleaning. We focus on basic outdoor relief that can be completed safely during a volunteer visit. See how it works →
Ready to request help?
Privacy & Safety
How we protect homeowners and volunteers.
Is there a background check for volunteers?
Yes. All landscaping volunteers go through a background check as part of onboarding. This protects homeowners and ensures trust across our community. Learn about our volunteer process →
How is my privacy protected?
We use structured communication channels — including masked calling and texting where applicable — to protect both homeowners and volunteers. We never share personal information publicly. Read our Privacy Policy →
Will volunteers take photos of my yard?
When appropriate, volunteers may take before-and-after photos to document impact and raise awareness. We aim to respect privacy and avoid sharing sensitive personal information. Read our Expectations of Service →
Veterans
Priority matching, verification, and how we support service members.
Do veterans receive priority service?
Verified veterans are flagged for priority matching with available volunteers — especially those who want to specifically help fellow service members. Learn about our Veterans program →
How does veteran verification work?
Veterans self-report on our intake form. Those who upload documentation (DD-214 or VA paperwork) advance through our review process to verified status. Learn more on our Veterans page →
Is my disability rating shared with volunteers?
Never. We do not share exact disability rating percentages publicly. Veterans who opt in may display a badge tier, but only with explicit consent. You always control what’s visible. Visit our Veterans page →
Can veterans volunteer too?
Absolutely — active duty, retired, guard/reserve, or transitioning. Visit our Military Volunteering page for details. Active-duty service members can earn MOVSM-qualifying volunteer hours.
Need help or want to learn more?
Volunteering
What to expect, how to get started, and ways to make a difference.
Is there a minimum time commitment?
No. One visit counts. Some volunteers help once; others make it a regular commitment. You set your own pace. Sign up to volunteer →
How do I get matched with someone who needs help?
After signing up, our system surfaces nearby requests based on your location and availability. You can browse open requests and respond to what works for you. Browse open requests →
Can my company or group volunteer together?
Yes. Corporate teams, schools, community organizations, and landscaping companies are all welcome. We support group service days and can help coordinate. Learn about group volunteering →
Do I need my own equipment?
Most volunteers bring their own, but it’s not required. Some homeowners have equipment available, and after 10 hours of logged service, you may qualify for a free battery-powered equipment upgrade. Learn about equipment support →
Do active-duty volunteer hours count toward military recognition?
Yes. We provide official hour verification letters on nonprofit letterhead — the documentation needed for MOVSM nomination packets. All branches welcome. Military Volunteering details →
Ready to make a difference?
Donations & Support
How funding works and other ways to contribute.
Do donations guarantee or prioritize service?
No. Donations fund operations, insurance, equipment, and outreach — but they never guarantee or prioritize service for anyone. Visit our Donations page →
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. I Want To Mow Your Lawn is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 85-3447661). All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Make a donation →
Where do donations go?
Donations fund insurance coverage, equipment upgrades for active volunteers, outreach and marketing, and operational infrastructure. We operate with no paid salaries. Learn more about our funding →
Can I support the mission without donating money?
Absolutely. Volunteer, spread the word on social media, refer a neighbor, use our Marketing Toolkit, shop our merch store, or Pay It Forward.
Partners & Organizations
How municipalities, agencies, and companies can work with us.
How can my organization partner with IWTMYL?
We work with municipalities, senior care agencies, real estate professionals, and community organizations. Visit our Partners page to explore options.
Can municipalities or code enforcement refer residents?
Yes. We work with municipal and code enforcement contacts to help residents who may be facing fines due to yard maintenance issues they can’t handle themselves. Learn about municipal partnerships →
Is IWTMYL available for corporate service days?
Yes. We can help coordinate group service days for corporate teams, schools, and community organizations. Start the onboarding process →
Can I sponsor or advertise with IWTMYL?
Yes. Visit our Sponsorship page for details on how companies and brands can support the mission.
About the Organization
The basics about our mission, structure, and how we’re different.
Is IWTMYL a real nonprofit?
Yes. We are a registered 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 85-3447661), established in 2020 in Wayne, NJ. We are fully insured through Nonprofits Insurance Alliance. Read our full story →
How many volunteers do you have?
Over 1,800 volunteers across all 50 states and growing. Our live count updates in real time on the site. View the Volunteer Coverage Map →
Is IWTMYL a paid landscaping service?
No. We are a volunteer coordination platform — a grassroots charity that connects people who need temporary outdoor relief with volunteers who want to help. We have no paid staff. Learn how it works →
What makes IWTMYL different from other services?
We’re not a contractor, not a gig platform, and not an app that charges fees. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered entirely by volunteers. No cost, no contracts, no strings. Learn more about us →
Still have questions?
We’re happy to help. Visit our Contact page or call 862-66-MOWER. For media and press inquiries, see our Newsroom.
We’re happy to help. Visit our Contact page or call 862-66-MOWER. For media and press inquiries, see our Newsroom.
Take the Next Step
Real neighbors helping real neighbors
No cost. No contracts. No strings. Just people who care — mowing, raking, and shoveling for those who need it most.
