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 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 days every weekend and sometimes during the week
- Litter Cleanup – Start right away and volunteer on your schedule
I’m looking for an opportunity with a very flexible schedule
- Trail Watch – Volunteer on your schedule as long as you meet the minimum commitment
- Litter Cleanup – Volunteer on your schedule
- Community Science – You select the times you volunteer within the season
I’m passionate about helping the environment
- Ecological Stewardship – Improve the health of local ecosystems and wildlife habitat
- Litter Cleanup – Make a natural area cleaner and safer
- Community Science – Contribute to scientific research and help conserve biodiversity
- Tree TLC – Keep our urban forest vibrant and healthy
I’m passionate about educating the public
- Nature Centers – Volunteer to assist with special events or sign up for a longer-term role
- Nature Ambassador – Educate others about visiting the Forest Preserves
I enjoy being active
- Trail Watch – Volunteer while hiking, biking, walking your dog or even riding your horse
- Litter Cleanup – Walk your favorite sites on a regular basis
- Ecological Stewardship – Burn calories while restoring natural areas
- Tree TLC – Mulching trees and hauling brush is a great workout
I want to learn new skills
- Community Science – Learn to identify animals and plants and how to gather data
- Ecological Stewardship – Learn best practices for invasive species removal, seed-collecting and processing, leadership and more
- Tree TLC – Learn how to prune trees and become a certified Tree Care Specialist
I want to volunteer with my family
- Youth Volunteering – See opportunities for youth to volunteer with a parent or legal guardian
I’m part of a group that wants to volunteer
- Group Opportunities – Groups may participate in a Litter Cleanup or Ecological Stewardship Day
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 walk, run, bike or ride at your own pace
- Litter Cleanup – Explore our extensive trail system while helping to keep the Preserves beautiful