 Our volunteers make such a huge impact in our parks and on our community. This month we are spotlighting Cherie Kuhn, a regular volunteer at Carriage Hill MetroPark. Cherie began volunteering in August 2022 after a friend introduced her to the many volunteer opportunities available at MetroParks. Cherie jumped in to support a couple of events right away including The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience and Fall Family Adventure and she was hooked! "I learned there was more than just trail work or needing to know the names of all the trees", she remarked. She liked the ability to choose volunteer activities based on her schedule and interests. Cherie has volunteered for several events including the Aullwood Winter Luminary Walk, Passport to Kindergarten, and programs at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm. Having been a kindergarten teacher, she felt comfortable supporting programs for children and families. Cherie even helped select story books for the Story Book on the Farm series of programs at Carriage Hill. Rick Musselman, the Education Supervisor at the Historic Farm, shared, "It is such a pleasure working with Cherie. As a retired teacher, she loves working with children at the farm, and her experience and kindness shine through. It is always great to see how excited the children get from learning new things from her. It is enjoyable to teach volunteers new skills and activities, knowing that they will convey it so well." Cherie soon found another opportunity to give back on the farm while also learning new skills - she joined the textile workdays where she learned how to make husk dolls, weave on the loom, and knit socks. "Cherie's passion for children's books and activities, textiles, and teaching leads her into the wonderful rabbit hole of 19th century research to find suitable activities related to Carriage Hill Historic Farm. The woman is on fire!", shared Deb Spencer, Education Specialist and Staff Lead for volunteers at Textile Workdays. In February 2023, Cherie began training to serve as a Historic Interpreter on the farm. Initially, she thought the facts would be intimidating, but she quickly discovered that the topics that piqued her curiosity also fascinated visitors. The training and staff support provided throughout the process helped her gain confidence in her new volunteer role, and her interest in period toys provided a fun way to connect with visitors young and old to start conversations. She also appreciated the wide selection of period apparel provided to her for this new volunteer role. Today, Cherie finds herself busier than ever as a regular volunteer on the farm. While she doesn't admit to having a single favorite park, she does say she truly loves Carriage Hill.  Thank you, Cherie, for your dedication and service to Five Rivers MetroParks! Join Cherie on the farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark! View available volunteer opportunities at Carriage Hill MetroPark here, or begin training as a Historic Interpreter here. Meet more AMAZING MetroParks Volunteers here. |
Volunteer Services Volunteer Services is available if you have questions or need assistance in signing up. Contact us at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275. Your Volunteer Services TeamParks & Conservation # 937-274-3176 Outdoor Connections Programming #937-277-4147 Human Resources Manager of Volunteer Services; Interim: Administration, Ambassador, Animal Care & Special Events #937-567-1413 Return to the Volunteer Blog here. |
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Dec 1, 2025
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by Volunteer Services
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