Caring for the Land and Serving People
Those seven words sum up the Forest Service's Mission. It's a pretty big mission, and the truth is, we couldn't accomplish it without the help of our volunteers.
If you're already a volunteer or partner, thanks for all that you've done. We hope to work with you more in the future. If you've never volunteered, but you're interested in getting involved, please take a few minutes to explore this site.
There are many ways you can volunteer. Some of these involve sweat, blisters, and bug bites. Some require maintaining trails or tree inventory in underserved communities. Some involve greeting visitors and providing information on careers. You may find a volunteer opportunity at a planting site sifting through soil layers and providing technical assistance. You may help with watershed restoration, reforestation, plant surveys, wildlife surveys, or providing interpretation and naturalist services at a Visitor Center. With Urban Connections, most of our volunteers are from your community and some travel from other parts of the country.
Chances are, if you've got a skill or interest, we might be able to match it with a need.
Why Volunteer?
Stewardship of the national forests is everyone's responsibility. The national forests and grasslands are there for you to enjoy because many people have served over numerous years to preserve, protect and improve them. Now you can give something back by volunteering.
But volunteering isn't just beneficial for the Forests, it benefits you. Simply put its fun! It can give you the opportunity to pursue a special interest, such as bird watching or hiking. It has the potential to enrich and improve your life. Spending time in the outdoors, enjoying the company of your fellow volunteers and visitors, can give you a new perspective on other facets of your life.
What Can I Do?
Some typical volunteer activities include:
- Provide recreation tips, hiking, camping, etc.
- Building and maintaining trails
- Answering phones and greeting visitors
- Working with computers
- Taking photographs from city to National Forest
- Presenting environmental education programs
- Information exchange
- Teaching others to fish
- Providing invasive species information
- Assisting scientific researchers
Who Can Volunteer with the Forest Service?
Anyone who wants to become involved may apply! Both individuals and groups of a variety of ages, lifestyles, and professions can contribute to the mission of the Forest Service.
Typical volunteers include retirees, professionals, counselors, college students, teenagers, and children.
- Those under the age of 18 must have written consent from their parents or guardians.
- Volunteers must be in good enough health to perform their duties without risk to themselves or others.
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to volunteer.
The Forest Service encourages diversity in the volunteer work force just as it does for its paid employees. This diversity enhances the work experience and brings the Forest Service's message back to communities and people who may benefit from its mission.
Would you like to know more?
Chances are, if you're interested in volunteering, you would like more information about specifics such as available positions, campground availability, amenities, compensation, tools, materials, and equipment. We'd love to talk with you. Please contact:
Daryl Pridgen
414-944-3590
dpridgen@fs.fed.us
...or a coordinator near you.
If you've got experience to share, an interest to pursue, or a commitment to Caring for the Land and Serving People, volunteering with Urban Connections of the Eastern Region may be right for you. Please give us a call!
