Calling all heavy-lifters and hands-on helpers!
If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity that’s active, challenging, and rewarding, this restoration project delivers. Volunteers support the physical rebuilding of the Historic Hillside Rock Garden, contributing to the preservation of an important piece of Aullwood’s history and a landscape that continues to take shape with every shift.
Impact
Horticulture at Five Rivers MetroParks creates, maintains, and preserves green space and habitats for pollinators and native plants, as well as educates visitors on sustainable gardening practices and local food production. Gardening volunteers support the Horticulture and Outdoor Connections staff in a variety of gardening tasks.
Tasks
Under the supervision of the Staff Lead, support and assist with the following tasks:
- Assisting with the lifting, carrying, and placement of heavy rocks as part of the Historic Hillside Rock Garden restoration.
- Working as part of a team to safely position rocks according to staff direction.
- Supporting site preparation and organization of materials during the restoration process.
Eligibility
- This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Adults (ages 18 and older), Long-Term. Learn more about our types of service here.
Additional Notes:
- Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Aullwood Garden MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Aullwood Maintenance Building: 930 Aullwood Rd, Dayton, OH 45414. The turn-in for the Maintenance Building appears quickly as you round the curve on Aullwood Road - Drive slowly and safely.
- Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact staff lead Beth Langford at 937-718-5658.
- Environment & Physical Demands: This project involves physically demanding work, including lifting rocks weighing approximately 50 pounds or more. This project takes place outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, insects, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to be working on a slope with some areas steeper than others. Volunteers should have the agility to maneuver around other rocks, plants, and people.
- Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear steel-toed boots and heavy-duty gloves, and bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
