 For almost a decade, Kathleen Shanahan-Aughe has been a dedicated volunteer with Five Rivers MetroParks lending her time and skills as an MVP Hike Patrol volunteer and supporting a variety of special events. Her passion for the parks and commitment to enhancing our outdoor spaces have made a lasting impact across several locations from Englewood to Possum Creek MetroParks. As an MVP, Kathleen regularly patrols trails, ensuring they are safe and accessible to the public. Since her retirement from her paid employment in May, she's also joined the regular trail maintenance crews at Germantown, Possum Creek, and Englewood MetroParks where she can tackle a variety of projects to maintain and improve our trails. "I like the physical labor and a sense of accomplishment that accompanies opening up a trail corridor or addressing a chronic wet spot on a trail" Kathleen says. Recently, she has supported a trail reroute project at Englewood, excited to contribute from the ground up. "It's rewarding to work toward a common purpose with other volunteers." Kathleen finds deep fulfillment in helping others experience the parks as she does. "Five Rivers MetroParks is truly a gem in our community", she reflects. "Spending time outdoors, particularly in the woods is good for my soul because I find such peace and enjoyment on the trails, it is important to me to help provide the same opportunity for others, whether as a friendly face when someone is unsure about the trails in the parks or by notifying MetroParks staff when trail conditions need attention." Kathleen also values the camaraderie she's found within the trail maintenance volunteer crew and the support of MetroParks' staff who she describes as "a delight to work with." In addition to her MetroParks service, Kathleen volunteers widely in her community. She recently devoted time to election-related volunteer work, including voter registration and ballot education. She's also an active volunteer at the Dayton Celtic Festival and the Dayton Arcade. When she isn't volunteering, Kathleen enjoys backpacking, cooking, reading, and traveling. "I took the Backpacking for Women series with MetroParks, which gave me the confidence and skills to make the transition from front-country camping and day hiking to backpacking in my 50's", she shares with pride. Life-long learning is another passion for Kathleen, who is now taking classes at the Ohio State University through their Program 60. "It's a great way to keep my mind active and learn new things", she says. Kathleen exemplifies the dedication and passion of our Five Rivers MetroParks volunteers. We are deeply grateful for her continued commitment to our parks and community.  Thank you, Kathleen, for everything you do to make our trails and parks an inspiring place for all! Interested in volunteering to support our trail maintenance volunteer opportunities? Learn more and sign up here. Or check out how to become an MVP like Kathleen here! Meet more amazing MetroParks volunteers in our Volunteer Spotlights! |
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 Allie Zimmerman - Parks & Conservation # (937) 274-3176 Amanda Wheatley - Ambassador & Special Events, Interim Administration# (937) 275-7275 Yvonne Dunphe - Programming # (937) 277-4147 Jenny Hymans - Human Resources Manager of Volunteer Services, Interim: Animal Care & Animal Programming and Court Appointed Volunteer Service # (937) 567-1413 |
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Nov 27, 2024
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by Volunteer Services
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