Educational Outreach
Sharing Our Shore–Waukegan believes that conservation begins with connection. Every educational program we offer is designed to help people discover the remarkable wildlife, habitats, and stories of the Waukegan shoreline while inspiring stewardship of the Lake Plain and Lake Michigan.
Throughout the year, our volunteers help deliver a wide variety of educational and community outreach programs for schools, libraries, museums, park districts, community organizations, festivals, and public events. During the summer, many of our programs take place outdoors at the Waukegan lakefront and surrounding parks, where participants have the opportunity to experience birds, native plants, insects, and other wildlife in the habitats they call home.
Most volunteer opportunities require only a few hours, and no previous birding or teaching experience is necessary. We provide training, educational resources, and mentoring so volunteers feel confident sharing their enthusiasm for nature with others.
Whether you're an experienced naturalist, an educator, a student, or simply someone who enjoys being outdoors, we'd love to help you find a volunteer role that matches your interests and schedule.
If you'd like to become part of the Sharing Our Shore–Waukegan team or learn more about volunteer opportunities, please contact us at sharingourshore@gmail.com. We look forward to welcoming you!
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer opportunities vary throughout the year and may include:
Assisting with environmental education programs for children, families, and community groups.
Leading or assisting with nature walks and bird walks.
Teaching beginning birding and binocular skills.
Staffing educational exhibits, festivals, and community outreach events.
Sharing information about the Great Lakes Piping Plover, bird migration, native habitats, and shoreline stewardship.
Assisting with school programs, museum exhibits, and hands-on educational activities.
Providing bilingual interpretation or translation to help make our programs welcoming and accessible to all members of our community.
Helping develop educational displays, activities, and outreach materials.