Two Volunteers Reflect

I asked two people to submit short pieces about getting involved in the Sierra Club as we plan to return to in-person meetings, and hear is what they said. – Jeff Gahris

From Janice Dugan... "The Post (?) Pandemic Blues" 

I was quite excited at the end of the pandemic when restaurants opened more fully, as did movie theaters, museums, and so on. And yet much of my world remained the same; my volunteer work has not resumed, theater plans are finally there but a bit of a wait until an actual in-person play, and gatherings still happen via Zoom. However, I have returned to the gym and a few dinners out.

Then I think, what will get me out of this funk? So, I go to the forest preserve and feel an immediate sense of calm and excitement simultaneously. Calm in that being in nature is always renewing.  And excited by the lushness around me, including little wildflowers. Today I saw a fawn! She and I sized each other up and then went on our way. I return home with plans to reach out and seek out. I will make calls for CEJA and continue to be involved with the Prairie Food Co-op as it strives for a brick-and-mortar store in Lombard. I hope to see others and connect at future walks or tours. Ahhh, I feel better now!

From Christine Patterson ...

I became actively involved with Sierra Club because environmental activism is where I see my legacy to preserve, protect, and restore the balance of our natural world. For many, including me, there is also a spiritual aspect to environmental advocacy and stewardship. When I reflect on why I am called to this work, I think of vacations in the great woods of northern Wisconsin, the pristine spring-fed lakes in the area, the tasty fish caught out of sparkling clean water, and the diversity and charm of the wildlife. I also reflect on the Great Lakes and our seas: places to experience swimming, tides, boating, scuba diving, and the beauty of awesome aquatic plants and animals living there. And sometimes you can even find treasure like I did! 

During the recent 2020-21 Illinois legislative year, I was asked to be a speaker in lobbying our state representatives via Zoom. In preparation for Lobby Day, I attended a number of presentations to learn about environmental issues and the top Sierra Club priorities for our state. This brought me a deeper awareness and understanding of the issues, and I felt more prepared to “talk the talk” on Lobby Day. I met new, like-minded people and found out how interesting and dedicated they are. My specific effort is to get environmental advocates elected at all levels of government. Through Sierra Club, I have learned first-hand how elections and environmental activism are critically linked together for a better present and future earth.