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Volunteer With Us

Share your time, skills, and passion for nature to help the Forest Preserve District protect and enrich DuPage County’s forest  preserves.

Contact Volunteer Services at 630-933-7233 or volunteer@dupageforest.org to learn more.

Becoming a Volunteer

Onboarding for long-term roles typically takes two to three months from application to your first shift.

Application Process

1. Apply online
Submit your application through our volunteer portal.

2. Application review (within 2 weeks)
Volunteer Services reviews your application and connects you with program staff.

3. Interview (3 – 4 weeks)
Phone or in-person conversation with program staff to explore fit.

4. Placement decision (3 – 4 weeks)
Volunteer Services confirms your placement or suggests other options.

5. Screening (within 1 week)
Applicants 16+ complete a background check and provide references.

6. Orientation (within 2 months)
Attend new volunteer orientation, held monthly at District headquarters (second Wednesday evening).

7. Training & shifts
Begin program-specific training and start your volunteer role.

Want to start right away? Join a one-time opportunity like a Restoration Workday. No application required.

Volunteer Programs

Our volunteer program offers opportunities in 13 areas, from habitat restoration to visitor engagement.

Some programs have limited capacity, seasonal schedules, or application deadlines. If invited to join, you’ll attend a new volunteer orientation before starting your role.

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Danada Equestrian Center

Care for horses by helping with daily feeding and stable routines.

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DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center

Support the care and rehabilitation of injured or orphaned native wildlife.

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Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center

Engage visitors in seasonal programs and hands-on nature activities.

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Graue Mill and Museum

Lead tours and demonstrate 1850s artisan techniques for visitors.

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Kline Creek Farm

Bring history to life by interpreting 1890s farm life, trades, and domestic arts.

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Mayslake Peabody Estate

Help interpret local history or care for the estate’s historic gardens.

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Natural Resources

Restore prairies, wetlands, and woodlands by monitoring wildlife and improving habitats.

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Special Services

Lend a hand at special events and programs throughout the preserves.

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St. James Farm

Share cultural and natural history with visitors.

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Trail Watch

Enhance visitor safety by offering information and trail tips.

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Visitor Engagement

Assist with educational programs that connect the community to nature.

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Volunteer Ranger Program

Support recreational programs and assist at volunteer workdays.

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Corporate, Group, & Scout Opportunities

Take part in flexible, short-term service projects with your team, troop, or family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for one-time or short-term volunteering?

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Restoration Workdays

Join a restoration workday that fits your schedule — weekends and weekdays are available. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. You’ll help improve forest preserve prairies and woodlands through projects like seed collecting and removing nonnative plants.

Register online or at 630-206-9630 at least five days in advance (10 days by phone for groups of five or more). 
 

Already a Volunteer?

Log in to our Volunteer Information Network to record your hours, stay up to date on news and events, and access resources just for volunteers.