There are many ways to get involved with Friends of the Chicago River!

Volunteer with us, engage with Friends at a special event, take independent action, or become a member. We welcome you to one or all of these opportunities.

Follow along with Friends’ river news, policy updates and fun events:

• Sign up for our biweekly e-newsletter
• Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter)
• Check out our events page

Volunteer

Volunteering your time and energy helps Friends amplify our collective impact on the Chicago-Calumet River system.

• Join our CREW - Chicago River Eco-Warriors – to share your volunteer interests and get monthly newsletters with upcoming opportunities.     
   
• Get hands-on with our River Volunteer Stewardship Program, including supporting volunteers at
  • Canal Origins Park
  • The Forest Preserves of Cook County
  • Paddle & Plant events
  • Wildlife Monitor Volunteers
  • Winter Chloride Watchers
     
• Clean up trash through our Litter Free Chicago-Calumet River Initiative, including
  • Chicago-Calumet River Day
  • Litter Free Supply Stations

• Take on a consistent volunteer role helping make our events and programs smooth, welcoming, and fun.
  • Volunteer Canoe Guide and Trailer Hauler
  • Education Volunteer
  • Events Volunteer
     
• Volunteer with your company or private group at a River Action Day
   
• Run for Friends at the annual Bank of America Chicago Marathon

Engage

• Visit our McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum on the Riverwalk to learn about the river system’s history and renaissance
   
• Canoe with Friends to experience the wildlife and wellness of our river system.
  • Check our events page for public canoe trips
  • Hire us to lead a trip for your group
     
• Check out our events page. Annual events include:
  • Autumn Cruise
  • Big Fish Ball
  • Chicago-Calumet River Student Congress
  • Chicago-Calumet River Summit
  • Member & Volunteer Celebration
     
• Educators can utilize our Chicago-Calumet River Schools Network for free lessons, resources and field trips

• Companies can check out our Business Engagement Opportunities

• Become a member to donate to Friends’ mission

• Take independent action to decrease plastic use and support our river system