Rotary Day of Restoration

Link to formal invitation here 

Rotary District 6440

Environment Area of Focus

Subject: Join Us for Rotary Day of Restoration – Saturday, May 31, 2025

Dear District 6440 Members and Friends,

The Rotary Clubs of Evanston Lighthouse, Glenview, Glenview Sunrise, and Wilmette invite you to join fellow members and friends of Rotary International District 6440 for a “Rotary Day of Restoration”— a community-driven effort to help restore and revitalize one of our treasured local natural areas in the Cook County Forest Preserves.

The forest preserves are more than just scenic retreats—they're vital to our community’s physical, mental, and economic well-being. Unfortunately, many of these areas are being overtaken by invasive species and are in urgent need of care. This is our opportunity to give back and make a lasting impact.

The day will be spent immersed in nature, working alongside members of the Friends of the Forest Preserves’ Conservation Corps and Engagement Team. Participants will learn about the unique ecosystems of the preserves, their history, and the challenges they face—then roll up their sleeves to be part of the solution.

What to Expect:

• Hands-on restoration activities such as removing invasive species like garlic mustard and torilis, sowing seeds of native plants, cleanup, and other activities.
• Guided nature hike and ecological insights from expert conservationists
• Time outdoors with fellow Rotarians and community members

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
• Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Location: St. Paul Woods, Grove #2. St. Paul Woods, Grove #2
• Directions: Follow Lincoln Ave into the preserve (coming from the east). You will see a sign for St. Paul Woods. Follow that road through until the second picnic grove you see. The site is also right off the Morton Grove Metra Station. From the station, walk north on Lehigh Ave. until you hit Lincoln Ave., then turn left and follow the road into the preserve.
• What to Bring: Important – Refer to the checklist below for recommended items.

Whether you’re an experienced volunteer or just looking to enjoy nature while giving back, this day is for you. Together, we can help ensure these irreplaceable green spaces thrive for generations to come.

Let’s work together to restore and protect our local natural heritage. Ready to Join? Registration is limited to 50 people. Don’t delay! Register at the following link:

https://rotary6440.org/event/rotary-day-of-restoration/

Please direct additional questions to Scott Daniels at skdaniels1@gmail.com. We hope to see you there!

Warm regards,

Rotary District 6440 Environmental Task Force

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Rotary Day of Restoration Checklist

Bring an Eco-Friendly water bottle. Each person will need to bring their own water bottle and be sure to bring plenty of water for the day. Water will be available for refill.

Wear sturdy, waterproof, closed-toe shoes. We can't always predict what the conditions will be on the ground. Good footwear is key to an enjoyable day.

Wear layers. The weather is unpredictable. Having layers allows you to be comfortable no matter what the weather is or the work.

Wear natural materials. Cotton is best. Synthetic materials burn more quickly. If there is a burn pile and an ember lands on your shirt, it will only leave a tiny hole on cotton whereas it will cause more damage to a synthetic material like polyester.

Wear clothes that can take a beating. Between re embers, dirt, and sweat, be prepared by wearing clothes that can withstand some imperfections.

Bring a hat. A hat is a great way to keep embers off your head and out of your hair. A hat will also keep you warm in the winter.

Bring your favorite gloves. While Friends will provide all necessary supplies, we encourage you to bring your own gloves if you have a pair that you enjoy wearing for yard work or in the garden.

Bring snacks. Snacks will be available but bring your own if you need something specific.

Bring Hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer will be helpful for taking time out for snack.

Bring chairs. If you feel you will need to sit to take a break a chair may be helpful.

Bring bug spray. Keep the little critters at bay as need be!

Bring a tick repellant. Ticks may be present anywhere in NE Illinois, and the Forest Preserves are no different.