Every year, volunteers offer their time, energy, and care to help us deliver on our mission of connecting people to nature and fostering conservation across the Center’s 185 acres. In 2025 alone, nearly 800 individuals generously gave 18,131 hours of service! Whether they contribute two hours or 1,000, these dedicated community members make everything we do possible.
Volunteer opportunities at the Center are as diverse as our ecosystems. Individuals can improve habitats as Land Stewards; welcome guests at the Visitor Information Desk; support teachers and children in our nationally recognized Nature School; serve as Nature Ambassadors on the trails or in the Great Hall; assist with our Raptor Program; lend their skills to facilities projects with the Ray Team; or create meaningful experiences through our SPARK! program for individuals experiencing cognitive changes. Special Events volunteers also play a vital role throughout the seasons, ensuring our largest programs run smoothly. For groups — from corporate teams to school organizations — outdoor stewardship projects offer a rewarding way to give back together.
With milder temperatures and our trails coming alive with new life, spring’s arrival is an invitation to enjoy the outdoors while restoring and conserving our beautiful prairies, forests, wetlands, and Lake Michigan shoreline. Land stewardship work is hands-on, approachable, and designed for all experience and commitment levels — no prior training required! Workday activities vary by season and may include removing invasive species, planting habitat appropriate native species, and trail maintenance. Our Restoration Ecologists share their knowledge as you work, answer questions, and can even take you on a plant walk if you need a break. If weather turns unpleasant, there are indoor options too, like seed sorting. You can always choose your own pace and mood that suits you best, whether that means lively social time with others or the serenity of working independently. Either way, seeing the immediate impact of your efforts (and knowing they make a difference in the long-term) can be extremely rewarding.
Beyond the measurable impact, volunteering builds community, grows knowledge, and supports well-being. Individuals form friendships rooted in shared purpose, gain new insights into the natural world, and many appreciate the physical and mental health benefits of spending time outdoors being active. For groups, volunteering fosters teamwork, strengthens relationships, and encourages authentic connection between colleagues or classmates.
To our current and past volunteers: Thank You! Your generosity sustains the trails, habitats, programs, and warm atmosphere that define Schlitz Audubon. For those considering getting involved, we would love to welcome you into our volunteer community! Simply fill out a volunteer application to get started. Individuals can then join our existing land stewardship volunteer sessions offered at 9 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday mornings, and groups can schedule a private stewardship experience. If you are interested in other opportunities, we will work with you to find the right fit for your interests and schedule. Together, we can continue caring for this extraordinary place and providing meaningful experiences for all who visit.
