Volunteering as a Family at Oxbow
By Oxbow Marketing & Communications Manager, Rachel Hennon
Real & Restorative Work, Together
Learn how a parent and kiddo helped protect native species—and why volunteer experiences can be meaningful for all ages.
We’re incredibly lucky to have such a warm, hardworking volunteer community, seriously. Back in May, during our monthly restoration work party, I was photographing volunteers as they laid down cardboard and mulch to protect young native plants in our “potholes” wetland area. It can be tedious work, but it’s vital for giving the plants a leg up over invasive grass. That’s when I noticed Madison Holbrook and her daughter Lennon in action.
Dynamic Duo
I was so charmed by their rapport. Lennon’s energy was contagious, and Madison’s steady encouragement showed just how grounding and joyful restoration work can be for both kids and adults. Their experience felt like one that might resonate with others, especially parents wondering if volunteering with children is doable (spoiler: it is). Madison was kind enough to answer a few questions for this post, and I’m grateful she did.
Here’s what she had to say:
How did you first hear about Oxbow or the restoration work party?
We first heard about Oxbow through my daughter’s school field trip, I was a volunteer with them. She came home buzzing about compost, red wigglers, and how kind everyone was. The farmers saw her excitement and told us about the volunteer days. She loved the fresh rhubarb she tried.
What inspired you to sign up—and to bring your daughter along?
That first visit left such a good impression—kind people, good dirt, and a sense of belonging. My daughter was so excited to jump in and help, and I loved the idea of doing something real and restorative together for her to be included in.
When you signed up, was there anything in particular you were hoping to get out of the experience?
We hoped for connection, hands in the soil, hearts in the community. I wanted her to feel like her passion for the earth, plants, and little creatures mattered. And it totally did.
What was the most memorable or meaningful part of the day for you?
Watching her light up as people welcomed her questions and energy. She bounced from project to project asking, “What’s this? Can I help?”—and the answer was always yes.
How did your kiddo enjoy the day? Any favorite moments or discoveries?
She was in heaven. Digging, dirt, the outdoors—what more could a curious kid ask for? She felt useful, included, and proud. She’s already recruiting friends to join us next time.
Would you recommend volunteering at Oxbow to others?
Absolutely. It’s community, nature, and purpose all wrapped in one, joyful package. It feeds the soul and so does their work.
Rooted in Shared Purpose
To all the volunteers who joined us that day—thank you. Your time and energy made a real impact in helping restore a more diverse and thriving wildlife habitat. And thanks again to Madison for sharing her reflections and for showing up with such intention and heart. Her story is a nice reminder that volunteer opportunities are about more than work; they’re about connection, belonging, and growing something good together.
Join Us Next Time
If you’ve ever been curious about volunteering but weren’t sure where to start, take this as your nudge. Whether you’re rolling up solo, showing up with your friends, or bringing your kiddo to try something new, there’s space for you here. We’d love to see you at the next one.