Our mix of programs gives you many options for volunteering in the Forest Preserves: Regularly or occasionally, at a nature center or in the woods, with a friend or to meet new people. Use these statements to help find the right volunteer opportunity for you:
- I want to volunteer right away
- I’m looking for an opportunity with a very flexible schedule
- I’m looking for a short-term commitment
- I’m passionate about helping the environment
- I’m passionate about educating the public
- I enjoy being active
- I want to learn new skills
- I want to volunteer with my family
- I’m part of a group that wants to volunteer
- I would like to volunteer on my own
Match Statements
I want to volunteer right away
- Ecological Stewardship – You can find Stewardship Workdays every weekend and sometimes during the week
- Litter Cleanups – Start right away and volunteer on your schedule
I’m looking for an opportunity with a very flexible schedule
- Ecological Stewardship – You decide which Stewardship Workdays to attend
- Trail Watch – Volunteer on your schedule as long as you meet the minimum commitment
- Litter Cleanups – Volunteer on your schedule
- Community Science – You select the times you volunteer within the season
I’m looking for a short-term commitment
- Ecological Stewardship – You decide which Stewardship Workdays to attend
- Nature Centers – You can assist at a one-time special event
I’m passionate about helping the environment
- Ecological Stewardship – Be on the front lines of stewardship efforts
- Litter Cleanups – Make a natural area cleaner and safer
- Community Science – Be a community scientist and gather important data
I’m passionate about educating the public
- Nature Centers – Volunteer to assist with special events or sign up for a longer term role
I enjoy being active
- Trail Watch – Volunteer while hiking, biking, walking your dog or even riding your horse
- Litter Cleanups – Walk your favorite sites on a regular basis
- Ecological Stewardship – Burn calories while restoring natural areas
I want to learn new skills
- Community Science – Learn to identify animals and plants and how to gather data
- Ecological Stewardship – Learn to operate power tools, apply herbicide, lead volunteer workdays and more
I want to volunteer with my family
- Ecological Stewardship – Most Stewardship Workdays allow children
- Trail Watch – Family members of all ages can join you on your trail patrols
- Litter Cleanups – Taking care of the Preserves is a great way for the entire family to volunteer together
I’m part of a group that wants to volunteer
- Group Opportunities – There are several opportunities available for your group
I would like to volunteer on my own
- Community Science – You are able to volunteer on your own or with a friend
- Trail Watch – You can patrol on your own
- Litter Cleanups – Explore our extensive trail system while helping to keep the Preserves beautiful