Volunteer Spotlight - Stephanie Clark

My name is Stephanie and I studied Environmental Science and Geology (basically I am a certified rock and plant nerd). I graduated in ’24 and wasn’t able to find a job in the field, but got connected with someone in the State of Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management who invited me to a volunteer event partnered with HIP. I have loved getting to know more people that share the same passion and care for the environment as me and am excited to learn more along the way. Lately I've been spending my free time on soccer and random creative projects, but my hobbies have a tendency to change like the seasons.
 
Advice for someone getting started? It’s simple, but I would say just do it. If you are wanted to get more connected with like-minded people or make a difference in your community, just go to the volunteer event (drag a friend along if you must). I understand if you feel like you don’t have the time to commit to a volunteer role or project, but anything helps. It’s ok to start small and just do what you can as you are able. At the end of the day volunteering is what you make of it and it can look different for everyone.

Favorite nature spot in Hamilton County? Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, it’s really close to me and is where I initially got connected to HIP.
​One word that describes your volunteer work? Meaningful

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