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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! Carl, a native Daytonian, spent some time other cities in Ohio before returning to Dayton in 2018, when he began volunteering as a 2nd Street Market Ambassador volunteer. Of the Market, Carl said "2nd St. Market is a gem to our community." He noted that the Market is "giving people an outlet and resource to get groceries." He explained the importance of such a resource in Dayton, an area considered a food desert. Carl was originally drawn to volunteering with MetroParks because of our sustainability mission and was told about volunteering by a previous MetroParks employee. In 2020, Carl started the Master Recycler class, held periodically in partnership with Montgomery County Solid Waste District. After Covid closures, he returned to serving as a Master Recycler with Five Rivers MetroParks and Montgomery County Solid Waste District. Carl is always quick to sign up for these opportunities and it's clear through speaking with him that he truly has a passion for spreading awareness of sustainable practices and protecting our environment. When asked why he likes volunteering for sustainability opportunities he said, "Because we're working to save the environment. We're working to make this planet better for everyone. The relationships that I've built through sustainability (opportunities) have been life changing and I've made friends for life." When not serving as a Master Recycler or 2nd Street Market Ambassador, Carl likes visiting Eastwood and Englewood MetroParks most. He spoke enthusiastically of Eastwood saying, "I enjoy going to Outdoor X and volunteering there. Eastwood is an all-you-can-eat buffet!" He noted that Eastwood is a great place to sit by the water, enjoy the breathtaking trees, picnic, or even camp! Five Rivers MetroParks is not the only place where Carl is staying involved and helping his community. He also serves as a Deacon at his church and volunteers for the Central and Southern Ohio Chapters of the National Kidney Foundation. He started volunteering with the Foundation in 2016 and helps as a volunteer with their kidney walk, fundraising, and their gala. Carl is drawn to this cause through a personal connection, as he has family and a close friend with kidney-related illnesses. When asked about the benefits of volunteering, Carl said, "You serve your community. I believe that we're called as Christians to be stewards. By serving the community you help others. The MetroParks have helped so many people. Whether that's giving them their first job or other resources. It gives them the opportunity to have that luxury where they can have that retreat where they can enjoy nature and feel safe without a care in the world." He encourages others to volunteer with these words, "Your community depends on you to volunteer for MetroParks because MetroParks is a valuable resource for those struggling economically, for education on nature and how it works, and to explore. It is one of the most self-rewarding things you will ever do." Kelly Bohrer, staff lead and Sustainability Manager, enjoys having Carl as part of her team and shared "Carl has been an invaluable volunteer for our sustainability and zero waste efforts at Five Rivers MetroParks. His commitment, energy, and accountability shine through in every task, no matter what the task is. His deep knowledge of recycling, coupled with his organization and willingness to tackle even the 'dirtiest' jobs with enthusiasm, makes him a key part of our team. Carl's passion for sustainability and his ability to inspire others have helped us move closer to our zero waste goals." Carl, an employee at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, will be starting a Master's degree program in September. His goal is to work in a sustainability role with his supply chain experience. Carl says of MetroParks, "You guys helped me find my passion and calling for the environment." If you see Carl in the parks, ask him for some tips on how to live more sustainably and wish him well in his studies. You can also support Carl's passion by joining him at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience at one of the Sustainability Team Opportunities! Thank you for your dedication, outstanding attitude, and support of Five Rivers MetroParks, Carl! Meet more amazing Metroparks' volunteers in our monthly Volunteer Spotlights here.
Five Rivers MetroParks recently lost a dedicated long-term volunteer, Ed Stevenson. Learn more about Ed's service and the impact of his generous support here. If you'd like to share a story about Ed, we'd like to encourage you to share with his community of family and friends here. Thank you, Ed for your heart for service. You will be missed. |
Volunteer Services is available if you have questions or need assistance with Get Connected. Contact us at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or call #937-275-7275 and ask to speak with a Volunteer Coordinator. Return to the Volunteer Blog here.
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Oct 1, 2024
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by Volunteer Services
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