Volunteer

We’re Wild about Volunteers

Anyone with a love of nature is invited to become an Indian Creek Nature Center volunteer!  Only time and enthusiasm are required. Volunteers make Nature Center programs available and affordable for more children, adults and families.  Volunteers learn new skills, do interesting things and meet friendly people while learning more about nature and the environment.  Plus, as a Nature Center volunteer, you will be working for a unique and special place that needs your help.

While most of our volunteers are adults, young people are welcome to volunteer at the Nature Center as well!  Youth can volunteer individually or as part of a larger group such as a class, scout troop, church or social group.  We have many projects that are perfect for volunteer groups including spreading woodchips on trails, prairie seed collection, litter clean-ups, land restoration projects and more.

Everyone is busy these days but the Nature Center staff and our other volunteers will appreciate and utilize any amount of time you can give. It’s truly a rewarding experience.  We provide training either individually or in a group.

What Do Volunteers Do?

• Lead programs for elementary classes
• Lead preschool programs
• Work on trails and the barn
• Assist with the Plant Sale and Nature’s Noel
• Transplant wildflowers and collect prairie seeds
• Help with habitat restoration projects
• Help design and build exhibits
• Monitor bluebird trails
• Help with maple syrup programs and the annual Maple Syrup Festival in March
• Share their special nature-related skills and knowledge in programs
• Serve as members of Board Committees or on the Board of Directors
• Enjoy “get togethers” just for fun (hikes, potlucks, etc)
• Help with Honey Fest

Come! Bring your Ideas and Talents

Teacher Naturalists are volunteers who lead elementary students on visits to the Nature Center as part of their science curriculum. Teacher Naturalists (TNs) are leaders, organizers, teachers and most of all inspirers. They are most active in the spring and fall. Teaching experience is not required!  You are only required to have an interest in nature that you want to share with others. Several days of training are offered each session.

The Nature Center Guild is an active group of women and men organized to provide financial support to the Nature Center through two annual fund-raisers: a plant sale in early May and Nature’s Noel, a crafts and food sale in early December. Throughout the year these volunteers gather to plan and prepare sale items while building friendships during potlucks, garden walks and work sessions. New members are always welcomed and needed, whether their contribution is an interest in plants, cooking and baking, crafts and woodworking, marketing and sales, organizing and planning, or simply enthusiasm for the Nature Center.

It’s easy to get started!  Stop in or call the Nature Center at 319-362-0664.