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Volunteer Spotlight: Deb Kozar - Sharing Outdoor Experiences; Plus, Celebrating Eagle Scout Projects!

There are many amazing volunteers at Five Rivers MetroParks, and each month we take time to honor one. This month we're spotlighting Deb Kozar who has been volunteering with us since 2018. Plus, we're proud to recognize two outstanding Scouts who recently completed Eagle Scout projects that will make a lasting impact in our parks.

Volunteer Spotlight: Norma Dycus - Finding Your Fit with MetroParks

Although many people have a fondness for horses and express interest in opportunities at the Carriage Hill Riding Center, it is those volunteers like Norma Dycus that truly shine. "Norma is a great volunteer who is always willing to step in and make sure all our daily chores get done efficiently. She is friendly and wonderful to have at the barn. I really appreciate her kindness as she works with our horses during trail rides, pony rides, or just moving them to and from their stalls and pastures", says Christina Northrup, Equestrian Specialist.

Volunteer Spotlight: Steve McNew - Sharing the Old and Learning Something New on the Farm

Steve McNew joined MetroParks as a volunteer in November 2019. As a retired teacher, and primary caregiver for his daughter, he was looking for a way to get engaged in the community. Eager to give back and share his love for history, Steve found his volunteer home at the Historic Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark.

Volunteer Spotlight: Judy Day - Lending a Hand and a Heart

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.

Volunteer Spotlight: Kathleen Shanahan-Aughe - Being in the Woods is Good for My Soul

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.

Volunteer Spotlight: Jon Reed - Volunteering as a Lifestyle

Volunteer Spotlight: Carl Henderson - Saving the World One Volunteer Opportunity at a Time

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!

Volunteer Spotlight: Wendy DelRe - Connecting Kids with Nature

Meet Wendy DelRe, a retired Montessori teacher who has continued to give back to youth and families as a MetroParks volunteer since 2016. Wendy shared she truly loves being around kids which is why she is passionate about connecting young kids with nature by supporting school field trips - "The kids have good insight!" she says.

Volunteer Spotlight: Sue Steinke - Volunteer Variety is the Spice of Retired Life

Sue Steinke, lifelong Daytonian, said "You don't know what is out there until you get out and investigate. I have greatly enjoyed the parks and now that I am retired I feel I should show my appreciation by volunteering.  I like working outside but I am also interested in reviving my textile arts skills, a lifelong interest for me."

Volunteer Spotlight: Volunteers Recognized by Governor's Office

We're thrilled to share that both our dedicated volunteer, Ed Stevenson, and our Cox Arboretum Woodworking volunteer group were recently nominated for a prestigious ServeOhio Award. The ServeOhio Awards are designed to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of individuals, groups, and initiatives across Ohio that have made significant impacts on their communities through service and volunteerism.

Volunteer Spotlight: Frank Beitel - Exploring Our Trails and Our History

Frank Beitel has enjoyed going to parks for much of his life and, now that he's retired, enjoys walking the parks with his grand dog. It was during one of these walks through Wesleyan MetroPark that Frank was inspired to give back to the parks that he and his grand dog love.

Volunteer Spotlight: Colleen Girard - Trail Enthusiast and Park Ambassador

Colleen Girard, who started volunteering in 2023, has already given over 150 hours of service to Five Rivers MetroParks. She said she participated in the MetroParks Trails Challenge (now 4th year), and once she retired, she wanted to continue her outdoor activities and meet new people while giving back to the community.