Chicago River Eco-Warriors
Chicago River Eco-Warriors
Friends of the Chicago River has been mobilizing volunteers for the past three decades. Our dedicated volunteers have spent countless hours working tirelessly to help us restore and protect the Chicago River. It’s because of our volunteers that we have been able to see so many great things happen in the Chicago River including an increase in the numbers of fish species, more paddlers, boaters and fishermen on and along the river, and increased habitat for wildlife.
But there’s more to do. And that’s where you come in. Sign the pledge today and become a Chicago River Eco-Warrior today, and join the ranks of dedicated people all across the region standing up to protect the Chicago River.
How it Works
Step One: Sign the pledge
Step Two: Friends’ staff or trained volunteer will contact you to come up with a plan to hit your hours based on what interests you and what we need
Step Three: Become an Eco-Warrior and work year round to protect and restore the Chicago River!
Step Four: Feel great about yourself, meet cool people, get outdoors and learn more about your river
Step Five: Join us at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Event to celebrate your hard work
At Friends, we have many ways to get involved already established, but we’re open to your ideas too! Here are some of the things Eco-Warriors will do:
- Volunteer at established events like Chicago River Day
- Volunteer at the Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum
- Show up at one of Friends’ workdays
- Plant a rain garden in your own backyard
- Give a presentation at your kid’s class
- And much more!
Volunteer Opportunities
Whether you want to get your hands dirty, dive into policy, or become a river ambassador through our outreach programs, we’ve got a place for you! Explore our volunteer opportunities to learn more about how you can make a difference.
In the Field
In the field opportunities cover everything from river restoration to leading a field trip through our Chicago River Schools Network. Click on the below opportunity to find out more about each program.
River Restoration at Edgebrook Woods
School Fieldtrips
McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum Docent
Riparian Resident
Canoe Guides
Events
Friends holds several special events throughout the year. Qualified volunteers are needed to help at events doing event registration, training, and other event needs.
Student Congress
Chicago River Summit
Chicago River Day
Big Fish Ball
Flatwater Classic
Policy
One of our strengths at Friends is our ability to mobilize river supporters to provide a voice for the river when we need it the most.
Sign up for our e-news by sending us your name and email address
Click here to send a letter to the MWRD and ask them to update our outdated water quality standards
Take our river use survey
Find out more about all of Friends’ issues and how you can help here
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