Schaumburg parks thanks volunteers

Donna Grueneich and Barb Mitchell were honored Wednesday, April 18, at Schaumburg Park District's “Schaumburg's got Talent-ed Volunteers!” annual recognition reception.

The district honored Grueneich as Recreation Volunteer of the Year. She began volunteering in 2004, and in the past year has dedicated 120 volunteer hours to the district. Grueneich appreciates the opportunity to work with children at special events and loves seeing them have fun.

“Donna is always smiling and a staple at special events,” said George Grey, volunteer coordinator for the district. “Her dependability, reliability and positive energy make her a great fit for this award.”

Spring Valley named Barb Mitchell, a Dedicated Volunteer at Spring Valley Nature Center and Volkening Heritage Farm, its Volunteer of the Year. Mitchell began volunteering in 2002, and has dedicated nearly 2,700 hours. Not only does Barb help out with planning special events, she contributes her time to assisting with events and presentations, the Mighty Acorns program for third- and fourth-graders, and craft projects.

“I really enjoy spending time as an 1880s interpreter at Heritage Farm and seeing the awe-inspiring looks from visitors when they learn about early life in Schaumburg,” said Mitchell.

After the awards ceremony, volunteers took the stage to thank the district's retiring executive director, Jean Schlinkmann, for her years of dedication. Volunteer Burke MacDonald from the Schaumburg Heartbeat television show led the volunteers in a drive to raise money to purchase a brick at Tribute Park at Volkening Lake. The brick will honor Schlinkmann's positive impact on the community during her many years of service at the district.

This year's reception at Chandler's Banquet Hall also featured vocal performances from Schaumburg Idol and Schaumburg's Got Talent contestants.

For information, call (847) 985-2115 or visit www.parkfun.com.

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