Get Involved

Volunteer With Us

We are always looking for volunteers to help us leave things better on the Shawnee. Tools, equipment, and supplies provided — just bring yourself.

Ways to Help

Pick your kind of workday.

Trash Blasts

Help pick up trash at locations across the Shawnee — thousands of pounds removed every year.

Register with Illinois Extension

Invasive Removal

Pull garlic mustard and clear autumn olive to make the forest healthier for native species.

Illinois Extension workdays

Trail Maintenance

Keep trails clear and signed so hikers, bikers, and equestrians don’t get lost.

Education

Provide educational information at events so visitors know the facts about the forest.

First Friday Trash Blasts — register for the next one through University of Illinois Extension.

Register at go.illinois.edu/TrashBlaster

Snake Road Sentinels — train with Illinois Extension to monitor wildlife and visitors during seasonal closures. Invasive-plant pulls are listed on the same Extension calendar.

Sign Up

Join the volunteer list.

Volunteering is free to you — we provide all tools, PPE, and supplies. At times we can even offer lodging, merchandise, and other benefits.

Prefer email? Write volunteer@shawneefriends.org.

Thanks for stepping up!

We’ll be in touch about upcoming volunteer days. A confirmation is on its way to your inbox.

Leave things better on the Shawnee.

Your membership and support fund trail work, trash blasts, education programs, and stewardship across all 289,000 acres.

Become a MemberVolunteer