Volunteer Opportunities

WE’RE WILD ABOUT VOLUNTEERS!

Who Can Volunteer?

Anyone is invited to become a Nature Center volunteer! Only time and enthusiasm are required.

Cedar Rapids Water Pollution Control & Genencor International employees pull garlic mustard after sowing mesic and wet mesic prairie mixes along the railroad tracks on the east side of Indian Creek

Why Volunteer?

• To make Nature Center programs possible and affordable for more children, adults and families.
• To learn new skills, do interesting things and meet friendly people.
• To learn more about nature and the environment.
• To work for a unique and special place that needs your help.

How Much Time Will It Take?

The Nature Center staff and other volunteers will appreciate and utilize any time you can give. Anticipate a rewarding experience.

How Do I Get Started?

Call the Nature Center at 362-0664 or stop in. 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

Teacher Naturalists…

… are volunteers who lead elementary students on visits to the Nature Center as part of their science curriculum.

TN’s are leaders, organizers, teachers and most of all inspirers.

They are most active in the spring and fall. Several days of training are offered each session.

Nature Center Guild

The 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 a crafts and food sale, Nature's Noel, 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.

Volunteer Brochure