The Ray Team started in the early 1980’s, and is named after beloved long-time volunteer Ray Jensen, who owned a construction company. Ray Team began as a group of people who volunteered to help with maintenance and large-scale projects.
Center staff cultivate an environment where every Ray Team member is valued. Each volunteer has unique preferences that are always respected. Many members enjoy working alongside fellow team members, while others prefer individual projects — but everyone enjoys the camaraderie of coffee and donuts on Tuesday morning before getting to work!
The range of challenges and experiences the Ray Team offers are as diverse as the Center’s habitats. One day members might work on carpentry projects or plumbing issues. Other days, they might paint siding or fix a faulty door hinge. For these volunteers, their common thread is curiosity and the desire to make a difference.
In this blog post, we’re sharing thoughts from a few of these hardworking and dedicated volunteers.
Jos Sauer
Hometown: Whitefish Bay, WI
Number of Years Volunteering: 5
Background: Board Chairman for Christ Pond Retreat Center in Random Lake and a Lake Park Friends worker.
Stephen Macek
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Background: Enjoys collector cars and getting around Milwaukee by foot and via the HOP.
John Gnorski
Hometown: Wauwatosa, WI
Number of Years Volunteering: 3.5
Gayle Rosemann
Hometown: De Pere, WI
Number of Years Volunteering: 3
Background: A retired business professional who has volunteered with many different organizations over the years.
David Haight
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Number of Years Volunteering: 10
Background: Travels with his wife to many different National Parks and loves camping in their small travel trailer. Enjoys nature photography, woodworking, and gardening.
How did you come to volunteer at the Center?
I thought it would be a good side activity that I could bring my construction and scouting skills to. – Jos Sauer
I chaired the Audubon Pacer in the 1990’s and after a 25-year absence, was delighted with the Center’s transformation. I funded a boardwalk and then volunteered! – Gayle Rosemann
Although I grew up in Wisconsin, I spent most of my adult years in the Washington DC area. When I retired, I decided to move back home. Late summer of 2022, a friend from the DC area came to visit. She liked nature, hiking, and the outdoors, so we set up a visit to Schlitz Audubon (which I had never visited before). I was absolutely amazed at everything I saw and experienced. As we were leaving, I stopped at the front desk and inquired about volunteer opportunities. I thought Ray Team was a perfect fit for me, and I was right! – John Gnorski
Why is volunteering at the Center important to you?
It feels good to help non-profits for the well-being of the community. – Stephen Macek
Knowing that I am providing some of the behind the scenes support so that the Center can educate young and old about nature and the environment. Helping to preserve some of the very best land located so close to our urban area. – David Haight
When I realized all the wonderful things going on at the Center, I immediately knew that I wanted to do whatever I could to foster or even improve the experience for the public. – John Gnorski
Please share a memorable volunteer moment / experience.
I enjoyed a 4-month effort replacing the fence around the “Log Cabin” Nature School area. – Jos Sauer
I created bird signs for the four Nature School classrooms out of cardboard, with each bird perched on a branch or at a birdhouse. The day they were delivered to the classrooms, one of the children walked up and gave the cardinal a big hug. Not sure who was more delighted…the child or me! – John Gnorski
What do you find rewarding about volunteering?
I enjoy fixing things to keep them working. – Stephen Macek
Being associated with such a wonderful organization and being able to help it carry out its mission. I’ve enjoyed meeting new people and developing friendships. – David Haight
Knowing that with others you can make a difference. – John Gnorski
What is your favorite place, animal, plant, or activity at the Center?
I like the calm of Mystery Lake’s wildlife. – Jos Sauer
I enjoy the lakeshore and boardwalks. – Stephen Macek
Loki (our American Crow ambassador), the perfect fundraiser. – Gayle Rosemann
If you knew someone was thinking of volunteering at the Center, what would you tell them?
Don’t wait. Your time at Schlitz Audubon will be valuable for your mental health. It will feel good to identify with others who may be retired but enjoy volunteering for a community resource in nature. – Stephen Macek
Try it; you’ll like it! – Gayle Rosemann
Thank You to ALL our amazing Ray Team Volunteers, we couldn’t deliver on our mission without you!
Interested in volunteering? Learn more.
