Why I Volunteer

This was originally published in the Cleveland Metroparks’ July 2016 Emerald Necklace.

I didn’t grow up with a lot of experience in the outdoors. In high school I went camping for the first time and woke up the next morning with water flooding the floor of my tent. I didn’t let that bad experience stop me though — through the years I kept at it, pushing myself to hike up mountains, learn to kayak, and set up my tent in such a way that would keep me dry.

When I learned that Outdoor Recreation offered classes to help me enjoy the outdoors even more I signed up for as many as I could. Through the various programs, I learned how to cook over a campfire, navigate topographical maps with a compass, paddle a kayak efficiently, snowshoe, cross country ski, and the ins-and-outs of backpacking.

I still enjoy taking classes today and love learning how to do new activities. In addition to participating in new classes, I get just as much enjoyment out of volunteering with Outdoor Recreation. Helping others learn new skills and watching them occasionally step out of their comfort zones is rewarding and fun. Even in classes I’ve participated in or volunteered for before, I always learn some new information, and often times it comes from other participants in the class! It’s great to be around so many people who are willing to learn how to do something new.

I’m excited for all of the classes being offered this summer and I hope you find something that interests you too — maybe we’ll see each other at a program soon!