To the Reader’s Forum:

Thank you for sharing the recent article titled ‘New to Volunteering’.

This article captured the importance of volunteering in a way that I had never thought of before. Volunteering (and even working for) a nonprofit really does remind you about what true democracy is. It requires you to listen to many voices, incorporate a variety of thoughts and ideas, put the greater goal first above your own personal priorities.

I serve as the executive director at the Audubon Community Nature Center where we have a variety of committees who meet to discuss issues that affect the organization including land use management, financial well-being, equity and inclusion, personnel matters, and more. This work is so important, and the people who serve in these roles are highly valued. I am so grateful to each of the more than 200 volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to the Audubon each year to make our work possible. We’ve tackled a lot over the past five years from policy and by-law revisions to many physical improvements to the buildings and trails.

New volunteers are always welcome! For more information please contact Audubon’s Volunteer Coordinator, Emily Nelson at 716-569-2345 or enelson@auduboncnc.org.

Audubon Community Nature Center executive director