‘When looking for volunteering opportunities to make better use of my free time, I found the Chiltern Rangers. Walking in nature was always one of my favourite hobbies to release the stress of day-to-day work as a social worker. Volunteering with Chiltern Rangers seemed a perfect match to the willingness to meet people from my community and care for the environment, while chilling on days off. Indeed, I try to be out with the Rangers every week!
It is difficult to choose a favourite day/event, as all are quite unique and I have been enjoying each single day.
Favourite fauna/flora? There are too many and I am still learning about it! Wildflowers can easily gather my attention not only for their natural beauty but mainly due to reminding me about the meaning of resilience.
I have herpetophobia, which is fear of reptiles, and I can feel quite uncomfortable with earthworms. However, seeing me so happy on a day out with the Rangers, confidently coworking with wonderful people, no one would say that I have such fear.’
Finally here’s what Ana has to say about anyone thinking about volunteering with us – ‘No one needs to be particularly skilled to help out! Litter picking is as important as planting a tree or building a shelter. Everyone is welcomed and included on our mission! Nevertheless, I must say that I have been developing several skills and learning a lot about my own community, namely its amazing woodlands and urban wildlife projects. So, just positives when thinking about volunteering with the Chiltern Rangers! 😁
If you would like to volunteer with us, please call 01494 474486 or email info@chilternrangers.co.uk. Or visit our volunteering page for more information: https://chilternrangers.co.uk/be-a-conservation-volunteer/