Blog

Get Connected Tech Tip: Spring Volunteer Training

NOW is a great time to start your volunteer training in preparation for Spring and Summer volunteer opportunities!  Visit our Volunteer Training Library to view convenient online volunteer trainings available to you NOW. Then, visit our Training and Events page to find in-person volunteer training options and season openers.

Staff Lead Highlight: Nicole Freshour, Conservation Coordinator

This month, we're excited to feature Nicole Freshour, a Conservation Coordinator and SE Zone Steward with Five Rivers MetroParks. Since joining MetroParks in October 2019 as a Conservation Technician, Nicole has been dedicated to restoring and maintaining natural areas, fostering biodiversity, and inspiring others to connect with the outdoors.

Parkways Online Features: MetroParks Monthly - Programs & Events for March, Be Aware of Red Flags when Sourcing Seed this Spring, and more!

Volunteer Appreciation: Volunteer Appreciation GROWS with new Tribute Plan to Honor Volunteers!

NEW! Tributes Recognizing Volunteer Service - We are growing our Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP) to show our growing appreciation for our dedicated volunteers. Beginning this year, volunteers with 2,000 or more volunteer hours can be recognized for their service to Five Rivers MetroParks with a variety of thoughtful tributes.

Five Rivers MetroParks Volunteer Newsletter - March 2025

Feature: Volunteering Once a Week Helps You Live Longer & Happier!

New research shows that just one weekly activity could help you live a longer, happier life: volunteering! A new study found that volunteering, even for just an hour a week, can lead to slower biological aging, especially among retirees.  Volunteering can help you live longer thanks to a combination of physical, social, and psychological benefits. Additionally, the more someone volunteers, the greater the positive impact on their health and wellbeing.

Volunteer Updates: Please Complete Our Annual Volunteer Survey by Feb. 28th!

Volunteers ages 14 and up are invited to tell us about their volunteer experience this year in our annual volunteer survey. This feedback is vital to providing data to our organization, grants, sponsors, and the broader community regarding volunteer involvement. If you are a registered volunteer with us ages 14 and up, please provide this helpful feedback by February 28th.

Conservation Tip: Stay Active this Winter

While our tendency is to slow down and stay inside during the cold months of winter, we want to encourage you to stay active and get outside this season! There are plenty of ways to get involved with Five Rivers MetroParks this winter - attend a MetroParks program, volunteer, go for a winter hike in the parks, ice skate at RiverScape MetroPark, or pick up a new hobby - anyone tried snowshoeing or cross-country skiing?!

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.

February Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteering is a Wonderful Way to Warm Your Heart - Check out how you can make a difference this month in your MetroParks!

Get Connected Tech Tip: Update & Enhance your Profile, Qualifications, and More!

he beginning of the year is a great time to update your volunteer profile and renew or complete new volunteer qualifications for volunteer opportunities in 2025!

Staff Lead Highlight: Mary Andrick, Horticulture Technician at Aullwood Garden MetroPark

This month, we're thrilled to highlight Mary Andrick, one of our talented Horticulture Technicians at Aullwood Garden MetroPark. With nearly two years at MetroParks, Mary brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for plants, making a significant impact on our parks and the people who visit them.