Volunteer

Join Us for a Workday – Year Round!

When you volunteer with Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards, you become part of a restoration story that began in 1989 and continues to grow today. Each year, hundreds of volunteers contribute thousands of hours restoring native habitat and strengthening biodiversity across our prairies and woodlands.

Locations

Carl R Hansen Woods
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Schaumburg Road Grasslands  
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Both sites are part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s Arthur L. Janura Preserve in Hoffman Estates, IL.

Alternating Saturdays and Sundays 
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 
See “Upcoming Workdays” calendar for details 
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All experience levels welcome. 

Age minimum is 13. All participants under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian unless participating as part of a chaperoned organization. Unaccompanied minors are not permitted per Forest Preserve District rules.

No registration is required — simply show up ready to help. You’ll sign a waiver when you arrive.

Working with a School or Corporation?

Workday Activities

Our workdays combine hands-on restoration with learning, fresh air, and community. 

The work we do varies by season, but here are some examples:

• Fall: seed collecting, planting, processing and mixing
• Winter: invasive brush removal and burning
• Spring: planting, removal of invasive plant species, monitoring of plant and animal species, brush removal
• Summer: removal of non-native plant species, seed collecting, monitoring of plant and animal species, brush removal

All tools, safety equipment, and activity training are provided. Experienced stewards supervise each workday — you just bring a willingness to learn.

There will be a mid-morning break with snacks provided (please bring water), and many volunteers grab lunch together afterwards at a nearby casual eatery.

What to Wear

Workdays take place outdoors in prairie and woodland environments, so please wear long pants, long sleeves, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes even on warm days. Dress in layers for changing weather, and bring water. In warm months, sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended; in colder months, gloves and warm layers are essential. For full seasonal guidance and safety details, please review our complete What to Wear page before attending.

Leadership & Certifications

Ready to take your impact to the next level? Many volunteers choose to grow into leadership roles over time — serving as greeters, workday leaders, burn pile burn bosses, chain sawyers or certified stewards. We provide free mentorship and training for those ready to take on more responsibility. 

Frequently Asked Questions