In honor of National Volunteer Week, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park employees thank the park’s irreplaceable volunteers for their time and energy all year-round. In 2021, volunteers at Northwest Trek logged a total of 2,295 hours.
“I appreciate all of our volunteers for their hard work and dedication to Northwest Trek and willingness to assist at any time,” said volunteer coordinator Jessica Steele.
Six volunteers have each given more than 20 years of service to the wildlife park. Another three have given at least ten years.
It’s likely you’ve met a volunteer while visiting Northwest Trek. Many of them have probably answered your questions. The volunteers helped in the education, conservation, maintenance, horticulture, and animal care departments.
Some volunteers helped guests learn about and connect with the animals, inspiring them to take actions to conserve the wildlife in their own backyards.
Peggy Behee has volunteered at Northwest Trek in the education and conservation departments since 1996 and has given more than 5,635 hours of service to the wildlife park. Among her many duties, she’s assisted in bat colony counts, amphibian monitoring, and prepared wild mason bees for their spring emergence.
“Peggy is a vital member of our Northwest Trek team, and we are incredibly thankful to have her,” said Steele.
Phaedra Franklin began volunteering with the education department in August 2021 and has already given 65 hours of service.
“Phaedra’s kind smile and endless knowledge of animals helps Northwest Trek guests build empathy for the natural world,” said Steele.
Other volunteers worked hard year-round to maintain the exhibits and grounds to provide an amazing guest experience. In the maintenance and horticulture departments, Carl Prather has volunteered more than 1,500 hours since 2015.
“Carl is a dedicated and hard-working volunteer that always comes to Northwest Trek with a smile on his face and is eager to help wherever he is needed,” said Steele.
Some volunteers were behind the scenes, helping staff provide outstanding care for the animals. Since 2007, Terri Terault has accumulated 3,950 volunteer hours in the animal care department.
“Terri helps prepare the food for many of the animals,” said Steele. “She also helps keepers clean the habitats and ensure the animals are comfortable and happy.”
To all of the volunteers at Northwest Trek: we are forever grateful for your unwavering support!