Richard White - Connecting your Passions to Giving Back
Richard White began volunteering with us in 2017 supporting the Outdoor Recreation team. He enjoyed working with the staff while supporting a variety of activities connected to his passions: cycling, paddling, and of course, great parks! Richard quickly became a regular at a variety of special events including Bike to Work Day, The TVT Challenge, The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, and The Adventure Summit, and a skilled volunteer at our paddlesports programs providing on-the-water assistance as a safety boater. Brent Anslinger, Outdoor Recreation Manager, shared, "Richard brings a contagious fun-loving positive vibe every time he volunteers. His energy is combined with some incredible technical skills from paddling to mechanics to customer service that make Richard a star. We are lucky to have Richard as part of our volunteer crew and now that he is retired, we can't wait to get to see more of Richard supporting Five Rivers MetroParks."
As a volunteer you can pick the things that interest you, and he says " if you have the time, do it. If everyone helps, all things can get done." Richard believes, "giving of yourself also makes you feel better," and when you do something useful it supports making it better for all who participate. He was surprised by his long-term commitment, but shared that when you do something you like, and give back to places you enjoy, it is so fulfilling.
Now retired, Richard has found volunteer opportunities that he can support year-round while reconnecting with another one of his passions-horses! Richard supports a variety of opportunities available at the Carriage Hill Riding Center year-round. Thanks to his support and the support of many other volunteers at the Carriage Hill Riding Center, MetroParks is able to care for these wonderful animals and bring them to the community at a variety of available public programs throughout the year from pony rides to horseback riding lessons, to vaulting, to equestrian camps, and trail rides. Katherine Berg, Riding Center Manager, shared this about Richard. "Richard has been a great asset to our volunteer crew at the Riding Center. He is a hard worker, his sense of humor is contagious, and he is always up for helping with whatever task is set for the day. It's been fun to see him re-engage with horses and re-discover the joy they bring. I enjoy working with Richard and appreciate all he does for MetroParks!"
Thank you, Richard, for your positive energy and outstanding commitment to volunteer service for Five Rivers MetroParks!
Meet more amazing Metroparks' volunteers in our monthly Volunteer Spotlights here.
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.
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