The Audubon Naturalist Society (ANS) is my second home! After retiring, I looked for a place
to volunteer where I could contribute to environmental conservation, enjoy my love of nature, and use my technical skills at the same time. ANS has provided such an opportunity
for more than five years. My volunteer experience includes ANS website support, Master Naturalist Volunteer training, ANS Shop assistance, water quality monitoring, special events and membership on the Crowder-Messersmith team, which helps fund small, local conservation and education projects in developing countries. And, I have been able to volunteer in all these areas despite being physically disabled! I feel that ANS has allowed me
to share in so many ways in their important contributions to the environment. As a result, I made the decision to leave a bequest to them in my will.
As a volunteer at ANS for the past six years, I have found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences since retiring from teaching. ANS truly follows its mission statement by supporting environmental awareness throughout the community. Their dedication to environmentally sound practices are exemplified by strong philosophical and political policies.
My primary focus as a volunteer is teaching and inspiring young children to appreciate and value the natural world. I personally lead "family hikes" once a month at the Woodend Sanctuary and look forward to many more years of enjoyable service to such a worthy organization.
I went to the Egg-Stravaganza event in the spring and had a great time with my family. My kids loved the egg hunt and prizes, and I liked having a beautiful picnic after!
I have volunteered with ANS at several events since first hearing about it last year. The staff is wonderful and welcoming, and the events are always fun and engaging. Awesome nonprofit!!