Conservation district needs volunteers

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March 28, 2008

BY BARBARA GREENBERG The Commercial-News Fri Mar 28, 2008, 10:16 PM CDT

DANVILLE — Even If you’re not the outdoors type, Vermilion County Conservation District needs you.

The district seeks volunteers to help at both Kennekuk County Park and Forest Glen County Preserve. But the needs are a bit different than in the past.

“We have lots of people who hike the trails and keep them clean,” Lara Darling, VCCD volunteer coordinator, said. “Our need right now is for secretarial help at both parks. “

Darling said volunteers are needed on weekends to fill in for staff at Kennekuk and Monday through Friday at Forest Glen.

“It’s on an as-needed basis,” she said. “We have two people we can call now, but sometimes they’re busy, too.”

Amy Steeples, Forest Glen program secretary, said someone volunteering to fill in for her would share the duties with several others.

“About four people are needed,” Steeples said.

“Family of staff members have to help out on occasion,” she said.

The work doesn’t get too intense, Steeples added. “It’s mostly answering the phones, using the copier, taking reservations,” she said. “Being courteous and polite are the most important.

“And there’s always someone available at the other office (Kennekuk) to answer questions.”

Doris Heiser of Georgetown has volunteered with the VCCD for several years.

“I started as a trail steward,” Heiser said. “I was also a hostess at the nature center and the pioneer camp. Since I’m in Georgetown, Forest Glen is closer for me.

“Now, I volunteer there as a secretary. It’s really interesting,” she said. “There’s a nice group of people to deal with. It’s busy, but it’s enjoyable.”

There’s still a need for historic building hosts, according to Darling. Those volun-teers are asked to work on weekends from 1-4 p.m.

In addition, help will be needed for October’s annual Haunted Happenings. This popular Halloween event requires many volunteers to insure its success.

Several benefits exist for VCCD volunteers. Not only do they get to enjoy the outdoors and meet new people, but they become part of one of Illinois’ premier park dis-tricts, Darling said.

In addition, volunteers who spend 10 hours helping out are invited to the VCCD’s annual summer cookout for staff as well as their fellow volunteers.

After 15 volunteer hours, Darling said, they’re also eligible for a 10 percent discount on shelter rentals and 15 hours of free camping at Forest Glen.

FYI

The Vermilion County Conservation District will hold a volunteer fair from 1-4 p.m. April 6 at Kennekuk County Park’s visitor center, 22296-A Henning Rd. Light refreshments will be served. Call Lara Darling at 442-1691 for more information.

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