Darlene Lewis is a long-time volunteer at Assiniboine Park and Zoo with a favourite task that many others may not share… picking up trash!

 

Q & A with Darlene

How long have you been volunteering at the Park and Zoo?
I started in the summer of 2011.

What is your favourite thing to do as a volunteer?
I started out in the Park, and fell in love with the Park, and my very favourite job is picking up trash. I love picking up trash! It bothered me to see trash in what’s essentially my backyard. It looked so horrible for our environment and I’m very proud of my park.

What made you want to volunteer at the Park and Zoo?
I live close to the Park and I wanted to be able to walk to where I volunteer. I wanted to volunteer outside and with other people, and volunteer in my community.

How does it feel knowing you're making a difference by volunteering?
It really hits a happy spot inside because you really do meet some very special people, whether it be other volunteers, or staff, or visitors and you hear amazing stories from people. I like that one to one personal contact, that’s just who I am. It really does make you feel productive, like you’re giving back.

Who would you recommend volunteer here at the Park and Zoo?
I constantly recommend the Park. People who are enthusiastic, who like to be outdoors, who enjoy others, who enjoy working, it’s not all fun and games! People who have a good energy level, it’s not for the faint of heart, although you make it what it is. You can work as much and as hard as you want, or less.

While conducting this Q & A interview with Darlene, she was taking a quick break from helping to organize a Park clean-up in celebration of Earth Day. In speaking about the clean-up, Darlene said, “I’m in my glory today!”

 

Learn more about volunteering at the Park and Zoo: www.assiniboinepark.ca/volunteer