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.
Local News
Conservation district needs volunteers
- Local News
-
-
Dad welcomes baby — while a world away
Like most fathers, Brandun Schweizer wanted to witness his first child’s birth. There was just one problem, however — he was thousands of miles away in Afghanistan.
-
Veterans ask people to pause
Although the Memorial Day weekend is a time for picnics and pool parties, veterans’ groups hope people pause to remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty, as well as others who have died.
-
Martha Stewart learns family’s roots
Television viewers have been treated to two series lately dealing with genealogy.
-
Haiti touches her heart
Janis Ostiguy of Danville experiences many emotions each time she visits Haiti — sadness at the poverty, happiness with the children, warmth for the people and their spirit.
-
Turtles return to race
Collected turtles are being fed fruits, meat and vegetables and will be ready to go for the 48th Annual Turtle Races.
-
Hiker’s heart is in America's Highlands
Robert Burns, the immortal Scottish poet, once wrote, “My heart’s in the Highlands, my heart is not here; my heart’s in the Highlands, a’chasing the wild deer; a’chasing the wild deer, and following the roe; my heart’s in the Highlands, wherever I go.”
-
Posters recall Cannon’s 1880 opponent
In 1980, John Mendenhall found three 1880 J. R. Scott campaign posters in a home he was restoring.
-
Longtime teacher finishes with kindergarten
Jan Hershberger earned her undergraduate degree to teach kindergarten, but it wasn’t until her final six years in the classroom that she had a chance to do it.
- Police to give away bikes
- Picnic planned for elderly
- More Local News Headlines
-


