Congratulations to our Volunteer of the Month!

Volunteers are essential to the success of the Park District.

What made you get into volunteering?

When I signed my kids up for tee ball, they were looking for head coaches. I’ve always loved the game of baseball, and being involved in my kids' life is really important to me. I felt like I had something valuable to offer, and volunteering seemed like the perfect way to share what I know and spend quality time with them.

Share a fun fact about yourself.

My wife and I are the owners of Pals Care - a daycare, preschool and before and after school program located inside Evergreen Elementary school.

I am a Cubs season ticket holder.

I have bowled three perfect games.

What’s been your favorite volunteer memory?

There are so many to choose from. It's seeing a smile on a kid's face as they run to first when they hit the ball. It's seeing the children execute the perfect double play exactly how we practiced. Additionally, I have met so many new people and made new friends that would not have been possible otherwise. Most importantly, it's being another part of my children's childhood that they can look fondly back upon and pass on their knowledge to future generations.

What’s the best advice you can give to someone who has just started volunteering at the Park District?

Be patient and enjoy it. Just like everything else, it goes by quickly. Next thing you know that little kid you helped throw a baseball will eventually be zipping a ball across the diamond and they have you to thank for that. It is truly a remarkable feeling.