VOLUNTEERING IN THE HURON-CLINTON METROPARKS—YOU CAN HELP!
In 2008, almost 3,700 volunteers provided more than 22,000 volunteer hours to the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. Volunteers, especially at the interpretive centers and golf courses, perform a variety of jobs that allow the Huron-Clinton Metroparks to provide a level of service for parks users that could not otherwise be done in the face of limited budgets and staffing.
Benefits to the Metroparks
The nature and farm centers, along with historical Wolcott Mill, use volunteers to help plant and maintain flower gardens; help census some of the parks' flora and fauna; clean animal pens and aquariums; paint and refurbish signs, exhibits and smaller buildings; help conduct some of the larger programs such as seasonal festivals; and in other capacities where a center's needs match a volunteer's talents.
The golf courses use volunteers to help maintain the pace of play, repair ball marks on the greens, move tee markers, clean trash and perform other tasks that make golfing at one of the Metroparks' courses more enjoyable.
Benefits to the Volunteer
Although there is no monetary compensation, people who volunteer at the Metroparks receive many benefits. First, is the personal satisfaction gained from serving their community by helping others make the best use of the parks and by making the parks better places to visit. Volunteering provides opportunities to socialize with others, pursue a hobby, exercise, gain experience at a particular job and to expand the mind.
People who volunteer a designated number of hours receive a Metroparks annual permit, free use of some of the parks' facilities, and an invitation to the volunteer recognition dinners that are held in the parks each year.
People may volunteer for one-time projects or on a longer term, ongoing basis. People needing to do Scout projects or community service are welcome.
For more information on specific volunteering opportunities, call 1-800-47-PARKS and ask for the park and facility of your choice. The park superintendent or facility supervisor will be happy to assist you.
