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 Obliterators – 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 Obliterators – 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 Obliterators – 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 Obliterators – 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 Obliterators – 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 Obliterators – Explore our extensive trail system while helping to keep the Preserves beautiful