Blog

Volunteer Spotlight: Ellen Eveland - Historic Interpreter, Textile Demonstrator, and Helper Extraordinaire!

Growing up in Illinois, Ellen Eveland's parents took her on family camping vacations from coast to coast, visiting historic sites along the way and sparking her interest in living history. She fondly remembers bringing her children to Carriage Hill MetroPark in the 1980's and 1990's for Christmas on the Farm, participating in scouting opportunities, hiking the trails, visiting farmers in the barn, and exploring the endless possibilities for fun and adventure on a historic farm. She knew then that she would someday become a volunteer. Fast forward to summer of 2022, when they visited the park to see the steam engine and ended up spending several hours chatting with the historic interpreters in the house - At that momen

Volunteer Spotlight: James Pugh - Even Small Acts of Service Can Contribute to Something Larger

This month, we are shining our spotlight on James Pugh, a regular volunteer at family-friendly events and our summer music series. James is one of the first warm and friendly faces to greet you.

Volunteer Spotlight: Congratulations to Our SERVE Ohio Nominees -Jenny Andary & Neil MacKay!

Each year SERVE Ohio - Ohio's Commision on Service and Volunteerism - honors exceptional individuals across the state whose service makes a meaningful impact in their communities. This year, Five Rivers MetroParks is proud to recognize two outstanding volutneers nominated for a SERVE Ohio Volunteer Award: Jenny Andary and Neil MacKay.

Volunteer Spotlight: Carol Williamson - "An Ideal Ambassador" and Administrative Volunteer

There are many AMAZING volunteers at Five Rivers MetroParks, and each month we shine a spotlight on one. This month we are celebrating Carol Williamson, a dedicated volunteer who began volunteering with us in March 2008.

Volunteer Spotlight: Deb Kozar - Sharing Outdoor Experiences; Plus, Celebrating Eagle Scout Projects!

There are many amazing volunteers at Five Rivers MetroParks, and each month we take time to honor one. This month we're spotlighting Deb Kozar who has been volunteering with us since 2018. Plus, we're proud to recognize two outstanding Scouts who recently completed Eagle Scout projects that will make a lasting impact in our parks.

Volunteer Spotlight: Norma Dycus - Finding Your Fit with MetroParks

Although many people have a fondness for horses and express interest in opportunities at the Carriage Hill Riding Center, it is those volunteers like Norma Dycus that truly shine. "Norma is a great volunteer who is always willing to step in and make sure all our daily chores get done efficiently. She is friendly and wonderful to have at the barn. I really appreciate her kindness as she works with our horses during trail rides, pony rides, or just moving them to and from their stalls and pastures", says Christina Northrup, Equestrian Specialist.

Volunteer Spotlight: Steve McNew - Sharing the Old and Learning Something New on the Farm

Steve McNew joined MetroParks as a volunteer in November 2019. As a retired teacher, and primary caregiver for his daughter, he was looking for a way to get engaged in the community. Eager to give back and share his love for history, Steve found his volunteer home at the Historic Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark.

Volunteer Spotlight: Judy Day - Lending a Hand and a Heart

For almost two decades, Judy Day has been a dedicated MetroParks volunteer, lending her time and skills in various volunteer positions and supporting a variety of special events. Her passion for the parks and commitment to supporting our mission have made a lasting impact.

Volunteer Spotlight: Kathleen Shanahan-Aughe - Being in the Woods is Good for My Soul

For almost a decade, Kathleen Shanahan-Aughe has been a dedicated volunteer with Five Rivers MetroParks lending her time and skills as an MVP Hike Patrol volunteer and supporting a variety of special events. Her passion for the parks and commitment to enhancing our outdoor spaces have made a lasting impact across several locations from Englewood to Possum Creek MetroParks.

Volunteer Spotlight: Jon Reed - Volunteering as a Lifestyle

Volunteer Spotlight: Carl Henderson - Saving the World One Volunteer Opportunity at a Time

If you've been to a special event at Five Rivers MetroParks, there's a good chance you've seen the smiling face of Master Recycler volunteer, Carl Henderson. With his amazingly positive attitude, willingness to step in when and where needed, and overall energy and enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks, Carl shines as a volunteer!

Volunteer Spotlight: Wendy DelRe - Connecting Kids with Nature

Meet Wendy DelRe, a retired Montessori teacher who has continued to give back to youth and families as a MetroParks volunteer since 2016. Wendy shared she truly loves being around kids which is why she is passionate about connecting young kids with nature by supporting school field trips - "The kids have good insight!" she says.