Over the years, Ohio River Foundation has been lucky to team up with some truly amazing local companies that care just as much about the Ohio River watershed as we do. When these teams trade their desks for gloves and join our restoration crew for a day in the field, big things happen for our environment and for the people involved.
Let’s be honest: restoration work isn’t easy. It takes time, sweat, and a willingness to get a little dirty. That is where corporate volunteers make a huge difference. More hands in the field means more invasive plants removed, more space for native plants to thrive, and healthier ecosystems overall. Even better, groups that return year after year get to see firsthand the results of their hard work. They watch native plants come back and help protect that progress for the long haul.
These volunteer days do not just benefit the land. They spark learning and awareness, too. Volunteers pick up skills like identifying invasive species and learn why their removal matters. This is knowledge they often take home to their own yards and neighborhoods. Many leave with a deeper connection to local environmental issues and a renewed motivation to get involved beyond a single day of volunteering.
And the benefits go both ways. While the work may be tough, it is incredibly rewarding. There is something special about standing back at the end of the day and seeing real, tangible change. For teams, these days offer a chance to step outside the office, work toward a shared goal, and build connections in a whole new way. Muddy boots included.
At the end of the day, corporate volunteerism is a win all around for ORF, for volunteers, for local companies, and for our watershed. We are deeply grateful to the businesses and teams who continue to show up, lend a hand, and help grow the impact of our mission. We could not do this work without you.
Want to get involved? Contact Araya Spangler at aspangler@ohioriverfdn.org to schedule your own corporate volunteer event.
