Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteerism is an essential part of maintaining the facilities and programs at Champaign County’s forest preserves! District volunteers develop meaningful relationships with the natural and cultural communities of the area, and aid in improving the quality of life for others in these communities.
The diverse volunteer opportunities at the District will allow you to work outdoors, learn about natural area management, or share your passion with others. However you choose to volunteer, you will become a valuable part of preserving Champaign County’s natural and cultural resources for generations to come.
Staff will help you find a perfect fit based on your interests and skills.
| • Resource Management | • Special Projects |
| • Education | • Artifact Care |
| • Gardening | • Annual District Cleanup |
| • Maintenance | • Office Assistance |
| • Special Events | • Citizens Advisory Committee |
| • Interpretation | • Recreation (golf, fishing...) |
The CCFPD has volunteer opportunities for both individuals and groups based on your availability and interests. Our staff can custom-fit a project for school, corporate, civic and scout groups, either one-time or ongoing. For complete information on sharing your time and talents with the CCFPD, contact:
Kelsey Hieke
Email: khieke@ccfpd.org
Office Phone: (217) 586-3360
Trail Stewards
Trail stewards provide a valuable service to Champaign County forest preserves and their users. Steward opportunities are available at all five preserves. Trails vary by location; they may be mowed grass, mulched or asphalt/concrete.
Stewards are responsible for making the trails safe and pleasant. This includes pruning back limbs, clearing storm damage, removing invasive plants, controling litter, and sharing reports with District staff. It is recommended to monitor the trails every 3-4 weeks simply by walking and enjoying the outdoors!
Garden Stewards
Volunteers are needed to maintain and enhance the beautiful garden beds in the Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden and at the Lake of the Woods Golf Course as well as beds throughout the District’s five preserves. We supply all the materials needed to plant and nurture the gardens; you supply the tender loving care and your gardening expertise.
Other Opportunities
• Seed Collection
• Invasive Species Control
• Bluebird Monitoring
Education Department
The District’s Education Department includes both cultural and environmental programming. Cultural Education is based at the Museum of the Grand Prairie (formerly Early American Museum) at Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve (Mahomet) and offers dynamic exhibits, programs and events rich in local history. The Environmental Education program offers nature-themed and plant science programs throughout the District. The main office is located at the Homer Lake Interpretive Center at Homer Lake Forest Preserve (Homer), with staff at the Discovery Garden (Mahomet) and the Middle Fork Campground (Penfield).
Volunteer Opportunities
• Youth Programs Teach preschool and school-aged youth the value of our natural and cultural history.
• School Marm/Master Dress in traditional garb as you take students on a trip back in time in our one-room schoolhouse.
• Counselor in Training Enrich our campers’ experiences as you help our leaders with summer camp (for ages 11-17).
• Public Programs Engage the public in our array of exciting educational programs.
• Special Events Make our events a success as you assist with all aspects of preparation and execution.
• Receptionist Provide friendly service to visitors at the Early American Museum and/or the Environmental Education Center.
• Curatorial Photograph, catalogue and care for our collection of artifacts at the Early American Museum.
• Library Catalogue research materials at the Early American Museum.
• Program Photographer Photograph posed and action shots of participants at events and programs.
