For almost two decades, Judy Day has been a dedicated MetroParks volunteer, lending her time and skills in various volunteer positions and supporting a variety of special events. Her passion for the parks and commitment to supporting our mission have made a lasting impact. Judy started volunteering while still working and connected with one of the early weekend opportunities. She volunteered at Cox Arboretum with the wildflower volunteer group, connecting with a group of passionate individuals doing something no one else was doing. Learning about native wildflowers and how to propagate them, while supporting the spring native wildflower sale is where it all started. "We became such a cohesive group with a wonderful volunteer leader, Kathy Dulaney, that I continued to volunteer on Saturdays," she said. Retiring in 2019, she added a second day of volunteering with MetroParks filling it with other opportunities she could support. Judy said "I loved the parks as a kid. My grandfather took us to Englewood MetroPark in the '60's to play and always cooked over a fire! So, I wanted to be involved in something outside which is why I started investigating Five Rivers opportunities." She loves how Five Rivers MetroParks has grown with many opportunities including more weekends, as well as inside and outside projects. "When I volunteer, I feel prepared and trained" and that is an important part of the volunteer experience, Judy shared. Judy has participated in opportunities to get her hands dirty, supported big events, and administrative projects, but says "I love the ambassador opportunities!" The chance to meet new people and provide them with the information they need to get out there are two key reasons she enjoys that role. Lynda Suda, Market Manager says, "Judy is a wonderful volunteer and a great fit for 2nd Street Market. Her customer service is exceptional. Even with challenging individuals, Judy goes above and beyond to be respectful and make people feel welcomed." Judy is from Dayton, her mom was an active volunteer, and she credits her passion to give back to her community to her mom. Outside of her MetroParks service, Judy stays active and engaged in volunteering with Dayton Metro Library, Heartland Hospice, and Kettering Noon Optimists. With two grandsons, Judy also dedicates her time to their schools. Favorite activities for Judy include hiking, gardening, and golf which keeps her active and connected to nature. Judy Day embodies the true spirit of Five Rivers MetroParks volunteers - dedicated, passionate, and always ready to lend a hand. Her unwavering commitment to our parks and the natural world inspires us all. 
Thank you, Judy, for your dedication and service to Five Rivers MetroParks! Interested in volunteering to support our ambassador opportunities? Click here to view the ambassador volunteer opportunities available now. Or more interested in an administrative project? Click here to learn more.
Five Rivers MetroParks recently lost a dedicated long-term volunteer, Bill Macek. Learn more about Bill's impact on the historic farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark here. Learn about funeral arrangements, donations in memory of Bill and more here. Thank you, Bill for your generous gift of service to Five Rivers MetroParks. Your enthusiasm will be missed on the farm for years to come.
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