Joyce Locke, of Cassopolis, has been volunteering with the Cass County Parks Department over the past two years. The department supervises and maintains the operation of several parks throughout the county, including Arthur Dodd Memorial Park in Niles, Dr. T.K. Lawless Park in Vandalia and Fred Russ Forest Park in Decatur. People interested in volunteering are encouraged to call the parks department at (269) 445-4456.

 

What made you start volunteering with the parks?

It was brought to my attention how they were lacking in help with the parks. They try to raise money for the parks with events like Winter Nights [held at Lawless Park], but it takes manpower to do that.

The parks, I feel, are very important to keep. They offer a lot of benefits to families and individuals. They’re just a really good thing and I would hate to see our parks disappear.

 

What are some of the activities that you’ve helped with?

The last thing I did was the Winter Nights, where they offer tubing and hayrides. They have a concession stand there also. I just helped with taking the money for entry fees, helping getting the food around and serving it. Just your basic concession duties.

In the past, I’ve helped at the booth when they have their biking events. They have races out there. I’ve worked at the booth collecting entrance fees when they come in. I feel that’s important. If there’s no one there collecting the money, it’s easy for someone to say to say “well, I’ll catch you next time.” So then the parks are out the entrance fee. You also get to talk to the people, which is nice. You get to know who they are, and where they’re from. I think they feel more welcomed when there’s someone from the parks there.

 

What’s the most satisfying part about volunteering at the parks?

I like seeing the different people that come through, all the families and individuals. How people are very grateful that the parks are there or excited about the event that’s going on.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her as the Volunteer of the Week by emailing Craig Haupert, Niles community editor, at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com, or calling him at (269) 687-7713.