Volunteering is a task of one's own initiative. A volunteer is one who serves or acts of his or her own free will. Volunteers give help, perform a service, or accept an obligation voluntarily. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are very appreciative of the unselfish dedication of the Rend Lake Special Events and Activities Volunteers who assist throughout the year. Our volunteers work hard and have a lot of fun while making a significant difference in the daily operations, activities, and special events at Rend Lake. They gain valuable experience and knowledge. You too can be a volunteer.



HOW? For volunteer inquiries, contact Dawn Kovarik at the Rend Lake Project Office by calling 618-724-2493 or e-mail rendinfo@mvs02.usace.army.mil. Persons under the age of 18 must have parental approval.

WHEN? Volunteers participate in activities throughout the year. In the spring, volunteers assist with the Christmas tree fish habitat program, planning and execution of the Rend Lake Earth Day Celebration, tree planting, planting and upkeep of flower beds at the Rend Lake Visitor Center. During the summer various activities involve volunteers such as the Rend Lake Beach Blast, maintenance of the displays, upkeep of wildlife demo garden as well as the flower beds at the Visitor Center. The fall attracts volunteer participation in Rend Lake's Annual Cleanup/National Public Lands Day Celebration and the Rend Lake Deer Hunt for Persons with Disabilities. We encourage you to participate in any of these events. There are also daily activities for volunteers interested in reptiles, gardening, and public relations. Many projects are on hold pending volunteers to implement them.

WHERE? Volunteers are encouraged to assist in areas of their own interest. They can volunteer with any of the four departments - Interpretation, Visitor Assistance, Facilities Management, or Environmental Stewardship. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's Special Events and Activities Volunteer program is very flexible and allows for considerable variety in the days and hours a volunteer can work.

WHAT CAN I DO? Volunteers can choose from a wide variety of tasks. These include Visitor Center assistance, campground programs, wildflower garden planting and tending, flower and tree planting, hiking trail maintenance, office and computer assistance, recreation area maintenance, photography, brochure development, maintenance of wildlife nesting boxes, special event planning and implementation, flyer design, and updating bulletin boards.


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