Bernheim Forest offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. From some of the best hiking trails in the state to interpretive programs, immersive art installations, fresh food at Isaac’s Café, and thoughtfully designed garden beds and tree collections, there is always something to discover.
If you have ever wondered how Bernheim is able to do so much, the answer is simple: our volunteers.
Each year, more than 250 individuals donate their time and talents to Bernheim, supporting nearly every department in meaningful ways.
Arts in Nature
In the Arts in Nature Department, volunteers play a key role in bringing large-scale installations to life. They help assemble artwork, clear sites, gather materials, and provide hands-on support throughout the process.
“One of the coolest experiences is getting to work with international artists,” said Becky Sharp, a longtime Arts in Nature volunteer. Several volunteers also assisted with the original installation of the beloved Forest Giants. Volunteer Rick Meyer says the Giants are his favorite project to work on. He helps with regular maintenance a few times each year and enjoys seeing the excitement they bring to visiting children.
Horticulture
Volunteers also provide essential support to the Horticulture Department. They work in the Edible Garden and Nursery and participate in the Thursday Gardening Group, which maintains garden beds throughout the Arboretum.
Larey Correll, a volunteer of more than 20 years, shared, “You’re never finished learning. There’s always something new. I’ve learned a lot about caring for my own garden from volunteering.” Volunteer Chuck Reynolds added, “Every week, I’m amazed by the staff’s knowledge of plants and trees. They are so generous in sharing their education and experience.”
Chuck is also a member of the Forest Stewards, a volunteer group that makes a big impact by clearing invasive plants from areas around the Arboretum.
Visitor Experience
In the Visitor Experience Department, volunteers support Isaac’s Café, the Gift Shop, and the Welcoming & Wayfinding desk in the Visitor Center. Volunteers can be found there almost every day, greeting guests, offering directions, and answering questions.
Volunteer Mark Ray describes the Welcoming & Wayfinding desk as “one of the most rewarding roles, since you get to experience the joy of discovering Bernheim for the first time all over again.”
Volunteers also play a vital role in special events such as Restore, Connect, and ColorFest. Volunteer Navin Madras shared, “I can attend the event, or I can help make it happen. I get to enjoy the event while also helping create it for others.”
Natural Areas
Bernheim’s Natural Areas are supported by Trail Rangers and members of the Beaver Brigade. These volunteers perform light trail maintenance, report trail conditions, and assist with projects that promote healthy beaver habitats.
Beaver Scout volunteers also monitor and report signs of beaver activity, helping protect Bernheim’s tree collections.
Education and Interpretation
The Education Department relies heavily on volunteers, particularly through the Volunteer Naturalist program. More than 90 percent of Bernheim’s interpretive programming is led or supported by Volunteer Naturalists.
The program is also a valuable learning experience for participants. Volunteer Naturalist Kat Panther shared, “Volunteers here are encouraged to read more, listen more, and pay attention more.”
Bernheim’s Volunteer Naturalists and Naturalist Assistants play a vital role in bringing our mission to life, helping lead public programs, discovery experiences, summer camps, adult group tours, school field trips, and more. If you’re curious about joining this community, sign up for the Volunteer Naturalist and Naturalist Assistant Orientation (January 24, 2026).
A Shared Impact
These examples represent just a portion of the ways volunteers support Bernheim. Volunteers also assemble membership packets in the Advancement Department, facilitate free play with the Children at Play Network, write blog posts for the Marketing & Communications Department, and represent Bernheim off-site as Volunteer Ambassadors.
Volunteers are essential to everything we do. Their time, energy, and enthusiasm make it possible for Bernheim to offer the events, programs, and landscapes our visitors know and love. We are deeply grateful for all that our volunteers contribute to Bernheim Forest.
Volunteer at Bernheim in 2026
Inspired by the impact of Bernheim’s volunteers? There are many ways to get involved in 2026. Whether you enjoy working outdoors, supporting events, engaging with visitors, or sharing your knowledge of nature, there is a volunteer role for you at Bernheim.
Volunteer orientations are held throughout the year to help new volunteers get started. The first volunteer orientation of 2026 takes place on January 14. These orientations provide an overview of Bernheim, introduce volunteer opportunities across departments, and help match volunteers with roles that fit their interests and availability.
If you are interested in becoming part of Bernheim’s volunteer community, learn more and sign up by visiting bernheim.org/volunteer. We would love to welcome you and grow this incredible community of people who help make Bernheim what it is.
