One day can make a difference!
“We appreciate the support and help we receive from the community, which allows Five Rivers MetroParks to more effectively protect our region’s natural heritage,” said Yvonne Dunphe, volunteer coordinator for Five Rivers MetroParks. “Participating in Make a Difference Day is a great way for everyone to help preserve our environment while experiencing the outdoors and connecting with nature.”
Five Rivers MetroParks will participate in this year’s national Make a Difference Day from 9 am to noon on Saturday, Oct. 28.
Register online by Tuesday, Oct. 24.
Community members of all ages will work at various sites throughout the Dayton area, including:
- Seed planting at Cox Arboretum MetroPark
- Maintenance, pruning and planting at Hills & Dales MetroPark
- Prepping for the upcoming ice skating season at RiverScape MetroPark
- Rebuilding pasture fences at Carriage Hill MetroPark
- Painting, mulching, and trail work at Germantown MetroPark
- Tree planting at the Medlar Conservation Area
- Seed collection and maintenance at Wesleyan MetroPark
- Invasive honeysuckle removal at Aullwood Garden MetroPark and Englewood MetroPark
“Make a Difference Day is the perfect occasion to have an experience in the park you can feel extra good about,” said Yvonne Dunphe, MetroParks volunteer coordinator. “The weather is cooler, fall color is on full display and you get to spend the day meeting new people while helping to spruce up your favorite MetroPark.”
For those looking to volunteer as a family, Dunphe suggests Possum Creek MetroPark and Adventure Central for younger children, while older children can enjoy volunteering at Germantown MetroPark.
Now in its 25th year, Make a Difference Day is one of the largest annual single days of service nationwide. With the common goal to improve the lives of others, millions of volunteers will gather across the country and commit their time to local projects. Five Rivers MetroParks has participated in Make a Difference Day in different capacities for the past few years, and hopes to register 550 volunteers in 2017.
More information is available and registration can be completed online. Participants should wear clothes that are suitable for the weather and the activity in which they are participating. Boots or thick-soled shoes also are recommended. Supplies will be provided for activities, but individuals may wish to bring their own gloves or water to drink.
ABOUT FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS
Celebrating more than 50 years of preserving green space and natural areas, Five Rivers MetroParks is a nationally renowned park system composed of natural area parks, gardens, high-quality river corridors, urban parks and a network of recreation trails. Five Rivers MetroParks protects the region’s natural heritage and provides outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Educational programs and recreational opportunities are offered year-round for all ages. Five Rivers MetroParks is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. To learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log onto www.metroparks.org or call 937-275-PARK (7275).
