Volunteer Opportunities for the New Year

The New Year has arrived and if you are like most people you’ve made a few resolutions.

Often people resolve to give back more to their communities, and keeping that in mind, here are some local organizations who are always looking for volunteers.

The Morton Arboretum: Natural Area volunteers are needed. Invasive plants grow and spread rapidly, crowding out native trees, wildflowers, and plants the Arboretum want sto establish in collections areas. Volunteers in good physical condition, able to navigate uneven terrain, and work in all weather conditions are welcome to join one of several work groups.

SCARCE (School & Community Assistance for Recycling and Composting Education): Volunteers are sought for the nonprofit to help with office tasks and organizing. Volunteers of all ages are welcome whether students or retirees. And, groups are also welcome. 

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County: The forest preserve district will be hosting an open house on Jan. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon and again on Feb. 6 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Blaze New Trails and Volunteer!” informational events will explain the volunteer opportunities it offers. District volunteers teach school groups and families about nature, bring history to life, and care for animals. They restore critical habitats, maintain public facilities and help visitors explore forest preserve trails and discover new outdoor activities. Volunteers of all ages are welcome.

These informational events will take place at the District’s headquarters within Danada Forest Preserve in Wheaton, which is located at 3S580 Naperville Road between Butterfield and Warrenville roads. For more details on volunteering, call Volunteer Services at 630-933-7681.

Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL): The nonprofit, based in Glen Ellyn and Wheaton needs volunteers to help transport rescued pets to and from veterinary visits and other appointments, most of which take place during the day.

Lisle Baseball Softball: The non-profit volunteer run organization is looking for families to be involved by helping out with registration, working concessions, volunteering for the Board PLUS Manage A Team or Be A Coach, and most importantly cheer on the sidelines and support your team's effort.

Find more volunteer opportunities around DuPage County through Giving DuPage.