Channel Your Inner Woodchuck To Help Bring Forest Preserve’s Mascot To Life
Energetic, passionate and positive volunteers are needed to portray the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Willy Woodchuck mascot at programs and events.
“As Willy, you’ll be an ambassador for the Forest Preserve District and a positive role model for environmental stewardship,” said Emily Kenny, the Forest Preserve’s volunteer service coordinator. “You’ll get to interact with people from all walks of life and inspire them to appreciate the natural beauty around them.”
To learn more about how you can get involved or to complete a volunteer waiver or application, visit the Forest Preserve’s Volunteer page or contact the Forest Preserve District’s volunteer program at [email protected]. Mascot training, the costume and support will be provided by the Forest Preserve.
“Help us keep the spirit of nature alive,” Kenny said. “And don’t forget to bring your best woodchuck impression!”
Individuals, groups of friends and families are encouraged to apply. More than one person is needed to help Willy get to all his engagements.
Willy volunteers can pick and choose the events they want to attend dressed as the bucktoothed woodchuck. Events where Willy makes an appearance include local festivals, community programs, nature hikes and more.
Qualifications include: a positive attitude; a willingness to wear the Willy costume and bring the character to life; passion for promoting outdoor recreation, environmental education and wildlife conservation; and the ability to be active for a few hours and tolerate the heat that can build up inside the costume.
While the role is volunteer only, those who portray Willy will be able to tap into their creative side and gain confidence while working with the public.
“The role requires energy, enthusiasm and a little bit of imagination — all things that are bound to bring out the best in you,” Kenny said.
Willy is more than a costume, Kenny added.
“Willy is a symbol of the natural beauty, environmental stewardship and family-friendly fun that the Forest Preserve District of Will County brings to the community,” she explained. “As the face of the District, Willy plays an essential role in helping people connect with nature in a way that’s approachable, fun and memorable. Whether they welcome visitors at Forest Preserve events, pose for photos with kids or spread excitement at local festivals, Willy brings joy wherever he goes.”
For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County, visit ReconnenctWithNature.org.
