Do you want to do some gardening, but have no growing space in Toronto?

Then volunteer to care for a laneway garden in Cabbagetown. 

Located on Drover Lane near the Gerrard-Parliament intersection, this unconventional gardening spot is one of a dozen initiatives by The Laneway Project, which is a local non-profit organization that helps Torontonians embellish and activate laneways across the city. 

The volunteer-run initiative partners with the City of Toronto, local artists and residents to install garden beds, paint murals, add lighting and host events.

The Laneway Project’s goal is to transform underused laneways into “vibrant, resilient public spaces” that help neighbours feel safer and more connected, while helping the city become more inviting and climate-ready.

In 2025, the organization partnered with the office of Ward 13 Councillor Chris Moise and local organizations STEPS Public Art and RainscapeTO to revitalize the Drover Lane pedestrian corridor, which now features a mural by artist Chris Perez.

Now, the Laneway Project is looking for a handful of volunteers to help maintain the new native planting beds along Drover Lane. You’ll be expected to commit a couple of hours every month between July and November. Here are the tasks you’ll be expected to do:

• Water plants.
• Remove weeds and invasive plants.
• Keep the garden beds tidy and welcoming.
• Monitor plant health and let the team know if any issues arise.
• Coordinate with the other volunteer stewards to share responsibilities.

• Water plants.
• Remove weeds and invasive plants.
• Keep the garden beds tidy and welcoming.
• Monitor plant health and let the team know if any issues arise.
• Coordinate with the other volunteer stewards to share responsibilities.

You don’t need any expertise or experience to sign up, just your interest and excitement. The Laneway Project will provide orientation, basic guidance and ongoing support as needed.

To apply, email info@thelanewayproject.ca with the subject line “Drover Lane Garden Steward” and include a brief note explaining where you live and why you’re interested in volunteering.

Wondering if The Laneway Project had a hand in making a laneway near you prettier? It’s all mapped out here, along with more laneways that could be transformed.

The best part? If you have an idea to transform a laneway in your neighbourhood, you can collaborate with the organization to make it happen. Applications for 2026 are closed, but keep an eye out on its Instagram for future opportunities.