Staff Lead Highlight: Shelby Shaw, Events Specialist - Connecting People to Nature, One Experience at a Time
Since joining Five Rivers MetroParks in 2022, Shelby Shaw has worn many hats! She started as lead at RiverScape's concessions stand, moved into a part-time Recreation Specialist role, then worked as a full-time Visitor Services Representative, before finally landing in her current role as Events Specialist on the Outdoor Recreation team which she's held since October of last year. Her journey has been shaped by a passion for connecting people with the outdoors and fostering community through shared experiences.
Originally from Utah, Shelby was drawn to Five Rivers MetroParks by our vibrant natural spaces. While working toward a degree in psychology with plans for a master's in social work, she discovered a career path that blended her love for the outdoors with her desire to work with the community. "I had no idea it was possible to have a job that allowed me to work with the community while also engaging in activities I enjoy during my free time," she says.
For Shelby, the most rewarding part of her role is facilitating first-time outdoor recreation experiences. "Just the other week, we took a group down the river rapids for the first time, and it was amazing to watch how their confidence grew," she recalls. She also treasures the communities that form around programs like Hiking for Older Adults and Heart-Healthy Trails. "it's rewarding to be part of a program that not only connects people to nature but also fosters a community of individuals who share similar interests and hobbies," she shares.
As a staff lead, Shelby is committed to ensuring volunteers feel comfortable, valued, and truly part of the team and the volunteers she works with have a tremendous impact on Shelby's work. She especially appreciates those who assist with event setup and teardown, whose dedication and teamwork make the process smoother and far more efficient for the entire staff. She also values the volunteers who help with waiver data entry, turning what could be a tedious task into an enjoyable, collaborative effort. And for programs like Hiking for Older Adults, she loves the energy and expertise volunteers bring, enriching the experience for everyone involved. "Volunteers are an invaluable resource," she says. "They help us complete projects in a timely manner and enhance the culture of our work environment by serving as a bridge between our agency and the general public."
Outside of work, Shelby has volunteered at The Humane Society, further proof of her commitment to serving her community. Her Leadership, gratitude, and passion for connecting people to nature make her a shining example of what MetroParks is all about.
Come volunteer with Shelby and her teammates at one of our upcoming programs or by volunteering at our biggest event of the year, The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Click the link to learn more and sign up .We promise you'll have fun, learn something new, and make a difference.
Thank you, Shelby, for all your support of volunteers and volunteerism with MetroParks. You truly are connecting people to nature one experience at a time!
Get to know more MetroParks staff through our monthly staff lead highlights here.
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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 TeamAllie Parks & Conservation # (937) 274 - 3176 Amanda Ambassador & Special Events, Interim Administration # (937) 277- 4109 Yvonne Outdoor Connections Programming # (937) 277- 4147 Sam Animal Care and animal Programming # (937) 274 - 4502 Jenny Human Resources Manager of Volunteer Services # (937) 567-1413  Return to the Volunteer Blog here.
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