Five Rivers MetroParks Volunteer Newsletter - July 2024

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Jul 1, 2024
by Volunteer Services


With the heat of the summer, finding a beautiful shady spot is key to staying cool.  Shady seating can be easily found at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.  Do you have a favorite shady MetroParks location? Show us! Send us a picture at volunteer.services@metroparks.org.

In this edition of the Volunteer Newsletter:

 FEATURE

 Five Rivers MetroParks Financial Health

  VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

 Volunteers Recognized by Governor's Office

JULY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Summer Volunteers Needed - lots of opportunities to get out and support your MetroParks this July!

  GET CONNECTED TECH TIP

 Adding Volunteer Shifts to Your Calendar  

SAFETY TIP

 Summer Heat Safety

 SUSTAINABILITY TIP

Sustainability on the Go

VOUNTEER APPRECIATION

Summer Care Campaign, VIP Items, and Volunteer Discounts



Feature: Five Rivers MetroParks' Financial Health


Five Rivers MetroParks supports our environment and our physical, mental, and emotional health.

  • We provide great outdoor recreation and relaxation.
  • We offer free outdoor education and festivals.
  • We keep our waterways clean, preserve green space, and protect our natural resources.
  • We maintain nearly 16,000 acres of land, 90% in its natural state - protected from development. 

 

Our Five Rivers MetroParks are well used by residents & are a major attraction for visitors - which helps our local economy.

  • More than 300,000 Montgomery County residents visit a Five Rivers MetroPark at least a few times a year.
  • People of all ages and backgrounds use our Five Rivers MetroParks two million times every year.
  • 96% of residents - across Montgomery County - live within a 10-minute drive of a Five Rivers MetroPark.
  • Our Five Rivers MetroParks manage 191 miles of trails for hiking, walking, backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, cycling and cross-country skiing.
  • Something for everyone -hiking, fishing, paddling, kayaking, camping, sledding, ice skating, or just enjoying some quiet time in the outdoors.

 

Five Rivers MetroParks has made budget cuts to staff, programs, repairs, and maintenance to save money.

  • With this levy, our Five Rivers MetroParks can:
    • Ensure safe picnic areas, restrooms, play areas, programs, trails, roads, and bridges.
    • Preserve green space and protect our natural resources.
    • Protect natural areas, wildlife habitats, and water quality.
    • Provide a variety of outdoor recreation and educational program opportunities for all ages.
    • Host outdoor festivals, events, and performances that residents enjoy and that help draw visitors here.
    • Keep knowledgeable, helpful MetroParks staff.
  • Without this levy, Our Five Rivers MetroParks will:
    • Have to delay repairs needed to keep trails and facilities accessible, clean, and safe for the public - for decades.
    • Require further significant cuts to programs and maintenance, while keeping positions vacant.
    • Not be able to complete planned upgrades and replacements to amenities like restrooms, trails, and playgrounds.
  • Investment, with this levy, is less than $3 a month per $100,000 of appraised property value.

 
Election Day is November 5th. Early Voting Begins October 8th.


VolunteerSpotlightNoLogo.jpgVolunteers Recognized by Governor's Office

We're thrilled to share that both our dedicated volunteer, Ed Stevenson, and our Cox Arboretum Woodworking volunteer group were 
recently nominated for a prestigious ServeOhio Award. The ServeOhio Awards are designed to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of individuals, groups, and initiatives across Ohio that have made significant impacts on their communities through service and volunteerism.

While neither Ed nor the Cox Arboretum Woodworkers were ultimately selected as the award recipient, their remarkable service did not go unnoticed. They received certificates from Governer Mike DeWine recognizing their exceptional dedication, outstanding service, and valuable contributions to our community.

We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering commitment and are proud to have these volunteers as an integral part of our volunteer team. Their passion for serving others is truly inspiring, and we're delighted to see them receive this well-deserved recognition. Read more about Ed Stevenson's volunteer service here, and the Cox Woodworkers here. 

Interested in joining our trail maintenance teams? Learn more and sign up to make a difference here. Maybe woodworking is your passion? Learn more about the Cox Woodworking volunteer opportunity here.

Congratulations, volunteers!

Pictured Top: Volunteer Ed Stevenson pictured with Noah Browning, Trail Technician (Left) and Michael Cooper, Trail Manager (Right)

Pictured Bottom: Some members of the Cox Arboretum Woodworking volunteer group are pictured alongside staff lead Uriah Langmeyer (right), including Gary Drake, Peter Bertolini, Dori Dick, Frank Beitel, Paul Westhafer, John Baldwin, Terry Cutter, and Don Erwine (left to right).

Meet more amazing Metroparks' volunteers in our monthly Volunteer Spotlights here. 


 

Volunteer Positions & Upcoming Opportunities 

Summer volunteers wanted - come on out and support your MetroParks in July! Volunteers are critical during the summer season to maintain our gardens, our trails and to care for our horses at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. Additionally, we offer many programs and events during the summer season for youth, families, and adults to get outside and connect with nature. Volunteer support is critical to ensuring these programs and events are successful.

See something that interests you, but have questions? Contact a Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or call #937-275-7275. Looking for opportunities where we need the most help right now? View our high-need, high-priority opportunities here.

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Don't forget to FAN the Volunteer Positions you support. When you FAN a volunteer position you receive a weekly digest email for that position that includes new volunteer opportunities. It also lets your Volunteer Services team know that you are interested in that position and its opportunities.


 

Ambassador 

Ambassadors are often the first friendly face a visitor sees welcoming them to the park and can be counted on to share helpful information and answer a variety of questions.

Volunteers get to enjoy great music while welcoming guest to Riverscape and help make coming downtown for a Riverscape event seamless.


Summer Music Ambassador:
The free Summer Music Series features a wide variety of regional acts performing live on the main stage under the pavilion at RiverScape MetroPark. Volunteer Ambassadors will share their enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks with a variety of diverse audiences. Ambassador volunteers enhance the visitor experience by offering excellent customer service to park visitors and helping them build awareness of all the amenities that MetroParks offers to community members. Volunteers are needed to help greet and welcome park patrons, answer questions and hand out literature as they stroll around the pavilion.



Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Master Recycler volunteer, Ann Wallace, enjoys supporting sustainability efforts at a variety of MetroPark events.

 

Master Recycler - First Friday Concert Support:

Support our waste-free initiative this summer! Master Recyclers are needed to help support First Friday concerts at RiverScape. Help support our natural spaces by keeping waste out of the parks and teaching others how to do so! Master Recycler volunteers build awareness of Five Rivers MetroParks' role in sustainable living and practices to community members while supporting our Waste Free Initiative. Master Recyclers assist with educating the public, managing waste stations, and setting up and tearing down waste stations.



Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Note: This opportunity is only for volunteers who have completed the Master Recycler Program. Not a Master Recycler yet?  Not a problem, a new class is starting July 24!  For more information and to register for the class click here.


 

Animal Care 

Animal Care volunteers support staff in caring for farm animals and wildlife animal ambassadors at a variety of our parks. These animals support MetroParks' mission by connecting the public to nature and education on local history, conservation, and small site sustainability. 

     Carriage Hill Riding Center volunteers help keep our horses cool during hot temperatures this season - thank you volunteers!

AlertGraphic.pngThe Carriage Hill Riding Center:
The Carriage Hill Riding Center is especially busy during the summer season, and we need the support of all of our qualified Barn Aides and Pony Ride Assistants! Sign up for a few shifts this season to ensure our horses, ponies, and visitors receive the care they deserve. 
Barn Aides
Pony Ride Assistants

      Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Gardening 

Gardening volunteers support our horticulture and education staff in caring for a variety of gardens throughout our parks. These gardens not only provide beautiful spaces for Miami Valley residents to get outside, explore, and connect to nature, but many also provide fresh local produce to those in need in our community.



Cox Arboretum horticulture staff and gardening volunteers work to maintain the flower beds throughout Cox Arboretum MetroPark.

 

AlertGraphic.pngCox Arboretum Gardening:

We're excited to announce **Evening Gardening Shifts** at Cox Arboretum MetroPark, in addition to the regular weekday opportunities. You can find 1 evening gardening shift scheduled on the third Monday of each month, June - September, at Cox Arboretum. Whether you're a night owl or just looking to beat the heat after a long workday, this shift is designed with you in mind.

Why join us for an evening of garden bliss?

  • **Cooler Temps**:  Skip the hot midday heat and enjoy the pleasant evening breeze.
  • **Post-Work Perk**: Perfect for those who have daytime commitments but still want to contribute.
  • **Social Sprouts**:  Meet fellow garden enthusiasts and make new friends!
  • **Relax & Unwind**:  Gardening is a great way to destress and connect with nature.


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Volunteers sowing vegetable and herb seeds at Possum Creek MetroPark.

 

AlertGraphic.pngGardening Across our MetroParks:

With the sun shining bright and the temperatures rising, it's vital to maintain our community green spaces and gardens during this time. However, the midday heat can be a challenge, which is why all shifts for this opportunity are scheduled in the morning. This way, we can beat the heat and make the most of the cooler part of the day.

Join us for gardening activities at various locations including:


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Park Maintenance 

Five Rivers MetroParks provides clean, safe parks and conservation areas for the public to enjoy year-round. Our Park Maintenance volunteers help to manage and sustain 18 beautiful parks, 11 conservation areas, and 160 miles of hike, bike, mountain bike, and horseback-riding trails for park visitors to safely enjoy. 


Volunteer Matt McCurry helps to clean the 2nd Street Market during his Market Custodial Support shift - thanks, Matt!

 

Market Custodial Support:

Love spending time at the 2nd Street Market? Want to give back to this awesome community hub? Well, do we have the perfect opportunity for you! We're on the lookout for some extra helping hands to tackle custodial tasks on weekend afternoons. Picture this: you'll be the superhero of cleanliness, keeping the market clean and tidy during operating hours, with some light sweeping, table tidying, and trash removal after closing. And the best part? You'll be doing it all indoors, so you can stay cool and comfortable while contributing to the community, making it a great option for those who want to give back but prefer to avoid the hot July heat!


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.


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Service Saturday volunteers help maintain the trails at MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA). Join us, Saturday, July 20th!

AlertGraphic.pngService Saturdays:

Looking for a no-commitment opportunity to support your MetroParks? Services Saturdays are scheduled for the third Saturday of each month from 9 am-Noon, kicking off in May and concluding in September. These public volunteer service days are an easy and convenient way for community members to support our mission and make a difference at Five Rivers MetroParks! Look for projects at Cox Arboretum MetroPark, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, and MetroParks Mountain Biking Area.

Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Programming 

Five Rivers MetroParks provides a wide variety of high-quality programs to help the public get outside and get connected to nature. Programming volunteers work alongside staff to provide support at programs year-round that help participants master new skills, learn about the natural world, and appreciate the value of open spaces. 


Volunteers provide support with registration, boats, and life jackets at our Try Paddlesport programs.

 

AlertGraphic.pngTry Paddlesports Program Support:

Ready to support our Paddlesport programs? Paddling a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or other paddle craft is a great way to explore nature and enjoy the region's various water features. Program support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming like these to the public. You don't need to be an expert paddler to help with registration, life jackets or be a boat assistant!

Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Astronomy volunteers Ron Kuckuck and Pat Craig set up the telescope at a program.

 

Astronomy Assistant Volunteers:

Are you interested in Astronomy?  Do you enjoy working with youth and families? Astronomy Assistant volunteers are needed to support astronomy programs in our parks and in the classroom.


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

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Skilled Trades

Five Rivers MetroParks takes pride in the variety of hands-on, skilled trades opportunities we offer, both in historical and modern-day settings. Our Skilled Trades volunteers help drive our mission forward by assisting with maintenance projects in fabrication, repair, and interpretation.



Historic Blacksmiths and Historic Woodworkers:

Did you know the historic craft shop volunteers, blacksmiths and woodworkers, are part of the Historic Interpreter team at Carriage Hill MetroPark? Join us on the historic farm this summer. No experience is needed, we will train you!


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.


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Special Events

Five Rivers MetroParks provides an array of outdoor events and large programs throughout the year for residents of the Miami Valley to get connected to recreation, music, history, family, and most of all nature. Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear down. 



Beer and Wine Sales and Support:

Enjoy attending our many programs and events at RiverScape MetroPark? Why not give back while you're there! Volunteers, 21 years and older, can give back by supporting Beer and Wine Sales at a variety of MetroParks programs and events at RiverScape MetroPark this summer. Proceeds from alcohol sales will further our mission of protecting the region's natural heritage and providing outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Training is required and is conveniently offered online. 


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.


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AlertGraphic.pngSmall Farm & Food Fest:

Come out to support the farm, learn how to live a little more sustainably, and have some fun as a volunteer with this year's Small Farm and Food Fest, a whole day dedicated to eating healthy, small farms, hobby farming, and homesteading skills! Educational talks on a variety of subjects will be held throughout the day from the Carriage Hill MetroPark Visitor Center and throughout the Historic Farm. Not available on Saturday, then consider the Set up and tear down opportunities available.


Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference.


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The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience:

Save the date for this year's Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience Saturday, October 5th and Sunday, October 6th at Eastwood MetroPark! Volunteers will be needed for setup, tear down, event sustainability, action sports, paddlesports, and more! Opportunities will be available here starting July 8th. 

            
 



Volunteer Opportunities Available to Support Our Partners!

The Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation:

The Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation is looking for a few volunteers to help with their annual Garden Party fundraiser on September 12, 2024, from 3-8pm.  Volunteers will help with set up for the event and tear down at the end of the night.  If you're interested in volunteering and learning more about this opportunity email foundation board vice president and volunteer coordinator Rich Gillette at r.j.gillette@gmail.com. 

Foundation volunteers are needed year-round to support the Gift and Garden Shop, located at the 2nd Street Market.  Proceeds from the gift shop support special projects and programs at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. For more information or to become a Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation volunteer, please email contact@wegerzyngardensfoundation.org.

Notre Dame Mission Americorps Volunteers: 

Are you looking for an extended service opportunity supporting your Five Rivers MetroParks? Want to build your resume?  There are several Americorps service positions available now supporting your Five Rivers MetroParks. We are actively recruiting for the following positions:  

 
-Germantown MetroPark - The School Engagement Naturalist will learn many of the skills needed to become an environmental educator by working with the Green Schoolyards program to help promote youth access to gardens and habitats. Members also provide animal care, assist with programming and community outreach, and train volunteers. Please contact Doug Horvath Doug.Horvath@metroparks.org for more details.
  
-Cox Arboretum MetroPark -The School Engagement Naturalist works with schools in the Miami Valley to promote opportunities for students and teachers to connect with nature. Members will assist with field trips, trainings, and the development of education materials. They will gain experience with both environmental education and working with teachers and administrators.  Please contact Pamela Lyons Gromen Pamela.LyonsGromen@metroparks.org for more details.



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Get Connected Tech Tip

Adding Volunteer Shifts to Your Calendar


Volunteers have told us that in addition to the reminder emails, it would helpful to be able to add their scheduled volunteer shifts to their preferred electronic calendar. Are you using this feature? When you respond to a volunteer opportunity you will be given the option to create a calendar event for your Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Office 365, or Apple Calendar.  Try it out and keep your calendar up to date with all your important activities. Don't forget to share your opportunity on social media and invite others to get outside and give back this Spring with Five Rivers MetroParks! 

 

Volunteer Services is available if you have questions or need assistance with Get Connected. Join us at an upcoming Volunteer Open House where you can meet one on one, in-person with a member of our Volunteer Services team. Or receive assistance via email at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or by phone at #937-275-7275. When calling, please ask to speak with a Volunteer Coordinator.


You can find all our great Tech Tips in the Volunteer Blog. Click HERE to access all of them!

               


It's getting hot out there!  We want you to stay safe and have fun in our parks this summer.  There are opportunities for you to splash on hot days. Learn where and how to cool down now through Labor Day!  And remember to stay hydrated, stay cool, and take breaks as needed as you volunteer. A few tips to keep in mind:

  • Drink Water. Drink more fluids, regardless of how active you are. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
  • Wear sunscreen. Sunburn affects your body's ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes before going out.
  • Dress Down. Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers like cotton.
  • Limit outdoor activity to the coolest parts of the day. Morning and evening hours are usually the coolest. Remember to rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to recover.
  • Enjoy refreshing foods.  Try eating more cold foods and snacks like salads, fruits, and vegetables . They can contain more water and are more refreshing in hot weather.

Please remember to recognize the signs of trouble this summer.  During the heat of the summer, people can be susceptible to three heat-related issues:  Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke.  It is important to know how to recognize them and what you need to do.  Learn more here:  Stay Safe and Cool this Summer
Note: During times of high heat, volunteer shifts may be shortened or cancelled to protect our volunteers and staff.  

If a volunteer shift is cancelled, delayed, or the location has changed, you will be contacted by the designated Staff Lead and/or Volunteer Services. Remember to check your email for important communications like these. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us avolunteer.services@metroparks.org or call #937-275-7275


Sustainability Tip: Sustainability on the Go!

July is a great time to check out the many festivals and events at Riverscape and elsewhere in downtown Dayton.  It is also a great time to have cookouts and picnics at home or in parks.  Ready to go sustainable for these experiences?  If you haven't started using reusable plates, cups, and silverware yet, now is a great time to do this.  There are hundreds of options for tableware that is lightweight, dishwasher safe, and recyclable (at their end-of-life).  If you have already ditched all one-time-use plastics and styrofoam, consider reducing your food's carbon footprint by eliminating meat and buying local food (better yet - food from your garden!).  But what about that delicious food truck food?  Good news - at MetroParks events (Summer First Fridays and the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience), the food trucks must use compostable and there is composting on-site.  At other festivals, consider looking for food trucks that use compostables or as little waste as possible (and encourage others to go low waste).  

-Submitted by Kelly Bohrer, new Sustainability Manager at Five Rivers MetroParks

Want to learn more about being sustainable? One way is through our Master Recycler class starting July 24. Learn more and get registered here. 

Many volunteers will be needed to support sustainability efforts at our largest event of the year, The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, coming up October 5th and 6th at Eastwood MetroPark. Save the dates and check back to sign up to support this need and make a difference. 

  

Volunteer Appreciation


Summer Care Campaign:

Volunteer Services wants to help keep you cool while you service with us this summer. We'll be providing cold treats at scheduled volunteer shifts beginning July 15th through August while supplies last. 

VIP Items:

Have you hit a service milestone?

Request your volunteer shirts, hats, and milestone service pins here and we'll bundle your items up and deliver them to the closest Visitor Center or your next scheduled volunteer opportunity.

Need a new volunteer name badge? You can request that too. Click here.

Volunteer Discounts:

Volunteers have started using their new volunteer discounts on MetroParks programs, shelter rentals, and more... have you?

New this year, we expanded our VIP, Volunteer Incentive Program to include volunteer discounts. Volunteers with 25 or more hours with us in 2023 qualified for discounts between 25-50% on MetroParks programs and routine rentals. Qualifying volunteers received an email with instructions and a discount code for applying their discount. Volunteers who qualify with 25 hours or more in 2024, can expect to receive their discount in January 2025. Discounts are good all year long and can be applied multiple times so you can enjoy MetroParks programs and rentals all year long. Think of it as a "thank you" for your dedicated service each time you use it from us. 

Check out the July issue of MetroParks Monthly for some great programs you may want to attend utilizing your volunteer discount:



Below you'll find a list of programs and events for all ages, from children to lifelong learners, in addition to MetroParks must-dos, sustainability tips and information on what's growing in the parks this month.

Take a deeper dive into your areas of interest by signing up for MetroParks' email newsletters and following Five Rivers MetroParks on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

PROGRAMS

Active Outdoors 

Youth & Family 

Adult Nature Exploration

Earth Friendly Living

For Everyone

Thank you for volunteering!

 



Left to Right: Allie Zimmerman, Amanda Wheatley, Yvonne Dunphe, Janelle Leonard, and Jenny Hymans are all excited to support you as you support your Five Rivers MetroParks.

 

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 Team   

Yvonne Dunphe- Outdoor Connections Programming #(937) 277-4147

Allie Zimmerman- Parks & Conservation #(937) 274-3176

Janelle Leonard- Business Operations & Animal Care #(937) 277-5445

Amanda Wheatley - Special Events & Visitor Services  #(937)275-7275

Jenny Hymans- Human Resources Manager of Volunteer Services #(937) 567-1413