Look for us at the next event or as we’re doing work around the park. We began wearing the safety vests for 3 very important reasons:
- Safety (okay, that’s obvious!) – at a previous Nature Fest a little girl became separated from her parents. Fortunately, her Dad told her if they get separated to immediately reach out to “someone with a vest on”. She did and in minutes was reunited with her family. Many of us are also certified first aid and can render assistance while emergency calls are being made.
- Ambassadors for Friends and the Park – we have quite a few volunteers who’s knowledge of the park’s environment and history goes quite deep. The Friends group began over 20 years ago by a group of dedicated users who wanted to support and protect the park as it expanded, hosting more visitors year after year. The knowledge and the history is shared among all the Friends. At the recent “Meet the Bunny” Easter event, a Mom approached some volunteers and asked about the lake water. We were able to give her recent, relevant information and provided additional resources for her to check in to.
- Marketing – okay, maybe a stretch but when you see so many of us out there having fun, you get the feeling we’re a pretty active group all with a focus on our mission of education, events and stewardship. Maybe you’ll think about joining!
When you’re at the next event – look for us and feel free to ask any questions about the park or even what the Friend’s Group does. And if you’re a volunteer – thank you for wearing the vest because you’re really helping the thousands of visitors we come in contact with at the park every year!