MEDINA, Ohio -- The Medina County Park District rewarded its volunteers for their service Sunday (May 5) with an ice cream social at the Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road in Sharon Township.
About 60 volunteers ate ice cream topped with a wide variety of fruits and nuts while sharing stories about their experiences in the parks.
Park volunteers serve in a wide variety of capacities. Workdays are flexible.
Medina County Park District volunteers enjoy ice cream sundaes Sunday at Oenslager Nature Center.Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com
Trail monitors help maintain the park trails by hiking and reporting problems to park staff.
One monitor mentioned that her duties helped her to keep in shape by walking -- some days on short trails; some on longer, more challenging paths.
Citizen science volunteers participate in long-term monitoring projects that collect scientific data on bluebirds, butterflies, frogs or backyard winter birds.
One team of three women shared that they had monitored both butterflies and bluebirds in the parks for at least 20 years.
Office assistants greet visitors, answer phones and perform other clerical duties as needed.
Cookie bakers make treats for special events.
Animal care workers care for the park’s educational animals -- including reptiles, amphibians and fish -- by cleaning, feeding and providing environmental cage enrichment.
Program assistants and program leaders assist the naturalists with programs including crafts, games and hikes.
Puppeteers assist with children’s puppet shows on various nature topics.
Most volunteers gain a great deal of enjoyment from their park activities. The park staff adds to the enjoyment with socials and programs for volunteers only.
Right now, the parks are not actively recruiting helpers, but will begin interviewing potential volunteers in August.
If you are interested, contact the volunteer coordinator at 330-239-4814 or access www.medinacountyparks.com under the Get Involved tab.
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