We are being contacted by an unprecedented number of groups, especially firms, wanting to volunteer some time close to Earth Day or Week. There is always an increase, but we have accepted more work parties than our volunteers can comfortably handle and also directed several to other organizations (nearer their offices).

I am hoping this is widespread, not just an artifact of our having been around a long time and consistently listing our opportunities. What are others seeing?

This also give me a chance to say again that at least in the East Bay, we should have some efficient centralized listing of volunteer  opportunities. Cal-IPCs wildland weed group is one such possibility, if developed and promoted. East Bay Regional Park District, which effectively controls nature in the East Bay, could do it, creating something that could be used by other organizations. Another possibility, Bay-wide, would be a revived Bay Area Open Space Council.

 It is inefficient that little Friends of Five Creeks should be hunting around for opportunities for large technology companies, groups from Walnut Creek, etc. And the end result is inevitably that (a) some work doesn't get done and (b) some people conclude that they are not needed or wanted.

Susan Schwartz, President