Metroparks Toledo will host a volunteer orientation on Tuesday, February 18, at Pearson Metroparks Macomber Lodge, at 6 p.m.
While orientations are not required to volunteer, it is an opportunity to learn about the diversity of programs and gain a better understanding of volunteer service.
Upcoming Volunteer Programs and Trainings •SuperB Owl Party, on Sunday, February 9, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., at Glass City Enrichment Center. Volunteers are needed to assist in serving up hot dogs for the program. Sign up in VicNet. For more information, contact Hannah Gillen at Han nah.Gillen@metroparkstole do.com.
•Volunteer trail patrol (VTP) interviews: February 9 and 13, at the Crosby Center, Toledo Botanical Gardens; and February 23, at the Farmhouse at Wildwood Preserve Metroparks.
Those interested in joining the volunteer trail patrol program can sign up for an interview in VicNet. VTP members assist Metroparks employees in providing a safe and pleasant experience for trail users. Acting as a communication link between visitors and staff, they promote the safe use of the trail system, answer questions, report potential hazards to the staff, and represent the Metroparks as a visible and helpful resource.
For more information, contact Emily Foshag at Emily.Foshag@metroparks toledo.com, 419-407-9713 or sign up in VicNet.
•Trash pickup at International Park/Ravine Park, every second Wednesday and fourth Sunday, February 12 and 23, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Help keep the greenspaces and waterways clean. Volunteers younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Meet in the large lot across from the waterfront restaurants. Sign up on VicNet or contact Meredith at Meredith. Busic@ metroparks toledo.com.
•Window on Wildlife brush removal at Wildwood Preserve Metropark, Metz Stables, on Saturday, February 15, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Help horticultural staff remove invasive and unwanted woody tree and shrub species to improve visitors’ view of birds and general aesthetic appeal of the space. Volunteers are recommended to wear rubber boots and weather appropriate layers. Volunteers should be 12 or older and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Sign up in VicNet.
For more information, contact Meredith Busic at Meredith. Busic@ metroparks toledo.com.
•Wintering the Oaks, on Saturday, February 22, multiple shifts available, at Oak Openings Beach Ridge area.
Metroparks is calling on volunteers to help ensure the second annual “Wintering the Oaks” event is full of fun and runs smoothly.
Assistance is needed checking in participants, providing directions and helping serve participants refreshments. For those 16 and older.
Sign up in VicNet. For more information, contact Hannah Gillen at Hannah. Gillen@metroparkstoledo. com.
•Counselor in training (CIT) program, set for June through August. Applications are due by February 28.
The CIT program gives youth 13 through 18 the opportunity to develop leadership skills during summer camp program and other educational outreach events.
CIT applicants should be at least 13 by June 1, 2025, and should not have graduated from high school prior to 2025. The program involves a commitment to attend two training sessions and the availability to complete at least two full weeks of camp.
Application information is available on metroparkstole do.com/cit.
For more information, contact Hannah Gillen at Hannah. Gillen@metroparks toledo.com.
•Conservation at work: Oak Savannah restoration, on March 8, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, corner of Wilkins and Reed roads.
Help restore 11 acres of oak savannah at Oak Openings. Volunteers will use hand tools to remove woody saplings.
Volunteers must be 16 years or older and accompanied by an adult if under 16.
Sign up in VicNet. For more information, contact Meredith Busic at Mered ith.Busic@metroparkstole do.com or call/text at 419-2628826.
