Find information on how to volunteer in our Forest Preserves throughout the year! 

Sign up for a guided tour on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays of the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum with our trained staff to learn the history of the Chicago-Calumet River System.

Improve the Little Calumet River by paddling out in canoes to plant native plants along the riverbanks.

Improve the Little Calumet River by paddling out in canoes to plant native plants along the riverbanks.

Expert speakers bring to life key aspects of the Chicago-Calumet River system, wildlife, history, and community engagement.

Friends of the Chicago River is looking for volunteers to assist staff on education field trips for K-12 and college students to a wide variety of sites in the Chicago-Calumet River system. Volunteer your time to inspire curiosity, stewardship, and river protection.

Learn the joys of paddling!  This event is geared towards those who'd like to learn with other beginners.

Learn what you can expect when volunteering for an event with Friends.

Enjoy paddling the South Branch of the Chicago River with Friends!

 Join us for an exclusive after-hours sunset and Full Moon paddle through the Skokie Lagoons.

Enjoy the magic of migration from a unique perspective!

Join us for a unique birding experience from our canoes!

Join us and the Forest Preserves of Cook County to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through bi-lingual birding, paddling, storytelling, and connecting with nature and culture on the water.