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Illinois

Volunteer for Nature

Volunteers are needed across Illinois—in cities, suburbs and rural areas—to help care for green spaces and share the wonders of nature with others.

A seedling is held by a person's hands who is showing it to the group of children around them.
Volunteers with plants Volunteers install a rain and pollinator garden at a Chicago Public School. © Sandy Bressner

Roll Up Your Sleeves—and Make a Difference

For over 40 years, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has partnered with the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission to support more than 140 groups that care for nature and their local communities. 

Volunteer opportunities vary from removing invasive species and collecting native plant seeds to monitoring birds, tending community gardens and connecting communities to nature through outdoor programming. There is a role for everybody: Individuals, families or groups.

TNC has also been partners with the Chicago Park District (CPD) for more than a decade. CPD offers a variety of environmental stewardship opportunities at natural areas and parks across the city.

People volunteering in nature.
Volunteering for Nature Hundreds of community groups and organizations are a part of TNC's Volunteer Stewardship Network (VSN). © Devan King/The Nature Conservancy

    Looking for TNC Volunteer Opportunities?

    Five TNC natural areas and programs regularly enlist volunteers. We’d appreciate your help!

    Nachusa Grasslands

    Indian Boundary Prairies

    Kankakee Sands, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

    Illinois River Program

    Stories in Illinois

    A cicada on a plant.

    Everything You Need to Know About the Rare 2024 Cicada Emergence in Illinois

    An Illinois summer isn’t complete without cicadas. 2024 is an extra special year for these critters as two rare broods will be emerging simultaneously, and they’re arriving earlier than expected.

    Bison walking in a frosted prairie.

    Illinois Nature Through the Seasons

    From bustling prairies and serene rivers to lively wetlands and ancient forests, Illinois has a bounty of beautiful places to explore year-round.

    Red winged black bird at Chicago's Montrose Beach Dunes.

    Urban Conservation

    Discover how The Nature Conservancy in Illinois is focused on urban conservation efforts that will protect nature in cities like Chicago.

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