Join us to Celebrate our Members & Volunteers
Celebrate the standout work and commitment of our members, volunteers, and partners in 2024 at Friends’ annual Member & Volunteer Celebration on January 30, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Chicago Maritime Museum on the South Fork of the South Branch of the Chicago River—otherwise known as Bubbly Creek
It was banner year by all, filled with positive outcomes in support of Friends’ mission to restore and protect the Chicago-Calumet River system for all people, water, and wildlife.
- Members provided their unwavering financial support for Friends’ ongoing public policy and planning initiatives totaling over $450,000.
- Volunteers donated over 20,000 hours of time, valued at over $675,000.
- Nearly 6,000 individual people volunteered.
- Over 43,000 people were engaged by Friends through our Bridgehouse Museum, Chicago River Schools Network, canoe program, tabling, presentations, and events
The benefits of volunteerism at Friends of the Chicago River was underscored in a recent Chicago Tribune story profiling the work of our dedicated volunteer canoe guides who help other volunteers immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the river system, restore and protect it, and relax in the calming and wellness benefits of being on the water.
A highlight of the Member & Volunteer Celebration is the presentation of annual River Commitment Awards for exceptional efforts on behalf of Friends’ mission and vision.
The festive event is a great way to meet, mingle, and share stories with other members, volunteers, and board members. The event will also feature a Question and Answer session so please bring your questions on anything from turtle habitats to paddling to policy initiatives.
Attendance is open to members and volunteers (active in the past 18 months). Not a member or volunteer yet? Become a member now, and sign up to volunteer.
Registration is required and food and drinks will be provided. This is an adults-only event.
