Staff Lead Highlight:Rachel Baney, RiverScape Program CoordinatorA Decade of Leadership and Volunteer Impact at RiverScapeIn November, volunteer staff lead, Rachel Baney will celebrate a milestone - 10 years as a RiverScape Program Coordinator with Five Rivers MetroParks. Though her job title hasn't changed, the path she's walked is rich with growth, creativity, and dedication to both her team and the community she serves. Rachel's event planning journey began as a college sophomore, where she co-hosted benefit concerts with local bands and interned at the Hara Arena. "I was fascinated by all the details that went into making an event happen, and loved sitting back when the dust settled to watch people enjoy what we put together," she said. With a degree in Organizational Leadership and 20 years of experience planning and supporting events across the country, Rachel eventually found her way back to Dayton. "Dayton is home," she shared. "I grew up in the area, and my mom was actually the first VSR at the Carriage Hill Visitor Center." This wasn't her only early connection to MetroParks, though. Rachel states, "I rode my first horse at the riding center and now have my own horse - an example of how the MetroParks programs can positively change a life," Rachel said. "MetroParks was always a place that I thought I'd like to work for 'one day'. I didn't even realize they had special event jobs, so when the RiverScape Program Coordinator role opened and I found myself looking for a new opportunity, it seemed like a perfect fit." In her role, Rachel helps coordinate RiverScape's dynamic festivals and community events. "With our festivals, we see people all over the world come to RiverScape and it's fun to be able to 'show off' our park system as a destination spot," she said. One of the events that Rachel plans at RiverScape is the "Passport to MetroParks" event, coming up on May 30th. This event, and many others throughout the year, utilize the support of dedicated volunteers. Rachel is quick to credit them for the success of every event. "Everything volunteers do supports our full team," she emphasized. "They help distribute posters downtown, work as ambassadors during our concerts, set up and tear down at Passport to MetroParks, assist with festival hospitality, and have even poured beer in the RiverScape Cafe." Rachel leads volunteers with intention, care, and a focus on clear communications. "I do my best to check in with volunteers ahead of the opportunity to make sure that they fully understand what the task is, where to park, and to answer any questions they might have," she said. "Once onsite, I'm either right there beside them in the work or checking in with them frequently." What inspires her most about MetroParks volunteers is their passion. "The ones I've observed are nothing short of enthusiastic about the parks. That's the best part! They all have a favorite park, a story, a 'must see' to share," she said. "Many of these volunteers know more than I do about the parks and amenities, so I love to see them open up and share what they're passionate about." Although Rachel is not currently volunteering herself, she's looking forward to volunteering with her son as he gets older. Whether coordinating large-scale festivals or working behind-the-scenes alongside volunteers, Rachel leads with purpose and passion, and makes RiverScape a more vibrant place for all who visit. Her dedication to her community and to leading volunteers with care has made her a stand-out employee and volunteer staff lead. Thank you for all your hard work, Rachel! Join Rachel at RiverScape this summer! Upcoming volunteer opportunities supporting her team include Passport to MetroParks, the Summer Music Series, and Beer and Wine Sales and Support. Click the links to learn more and sign up. |
 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 (from left to right)Parks & Conservation # (937) 274-3176 Ambassador & Special Events, Interim Administration # (937) 277-4109 Outdoor Connections Programming # (937) 277-4147 Human Resources Manager of Volunteer Services Interim: Animal Care & Animal Programming and Court Appointed Volunteer Service # (937) 567-1413 |
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May 7, 2025
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by Volunteer Services
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