 Each year SERVE Ohio - Ohio's Commision on Service and Volunteerism - honors exceptional individuals across the state whose service makes a meaningful impact in their communities. This year, Five Rivers MetroParks is proud to recognize two outstanding volunteers nominated for a SERVE Ohio Volunteer Award: Jenny Andary and Neil MacKay. These two individuals embody the very best of what it means to serve - dedicated time, energy, and heart to projects that benefit our parks, staff, and community. Jenny Andary: Reviving a Garden, Restoring a Legacy  Since 2008, Jenny Andary has been a gardening volunteer at Cox Arboretum MetroPark, with a special passion for the Maimon Memorial Garden. In 2022, after a news article called attention to the garden's decline during the pandemic, Jenny took the lead in bringing it back to life. She developed a new design, helped select and plant a wide range of crops, and created training resources to support other volunteers, helping to develop the new Gardening Ambassador volunteer opportunity. Jenny credited the growth and success of the Maimon Memorial Garden to the shared efforts of her fellow Gardening Ambassador volunteers when she received the nomination. Regional Park Manager Joe Morrison shared, "If it weren't for Jenny's dedication, passion, and teamwork, the gardens would not have been such a success in 2023. She played a crucial role in making them alluring and appealing spaces that visitors keep coming back to see." Thanks to Jenny's leadership and heart, the garden has become not just a beautiful tribute to the family it honors, but a vibrant and educational destination once again. Neil MacKay: The Reliable Conservationist  Neil MacKay's impact spans multiple MetroParks, from RiverScape to our southern conservation areas. Whether supporting garden care at our Urban parks, removing invasive species, assisting with the Burn Team, or helping with the propagation operation, Neil brings a tireless work ethic and a humble willingness to do whatever's needed. He's known for mentoring others and showing up with positivity and humor, no matter the task. Horticulturalist Amy Kennedy noted, "Neil brings great ideas, communicates well, and is always willing to take a new volunteer under his wing. His presence helps create a positive environment for everyone." Nicole Freshour, South Conservation Coordinator, added, "Neil's leadership and care make a real difference. Projects run more smoothly and stress is reduced when Neil is involved. He's simply someone you can count on." A Well-Deserved Recognition Though they serve in different capacities, Jenny and Neil share a common thread: their unwavering commitment to MetroParks and the people it serves. While they were not selected as final award recipients this year, being nominated for the SERVE Ohio Volunteer Award is a remarkable recognition of their impact and dedication. Jenny and Neil, your efforts remind us of what's possible when volunteers step forward with heart, skill and a deep love for the land and community. You inspire us all. |
| Thank you, Neil and Jenny, for your outstanding commitment, dedication, and service to Five Rivers MetroParks! Interested in volunteering to support our gardening volunteer opportunities at Cox Arboretum or RiverScape MetroParks? Check out our Cox Arboretum Gardening opportunities here, and our RiverScape and Urban Garden Stewards opportunities here! Meet more AMAZING MetroParks volunteers here in our Get Connected Volunteer Blog! |
 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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Jun 2, 2025
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by Volunteer Services
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