The Forest Preserve District has a furry and fun volunteer opportunity for those who have always yearned to step into a mascot costume and represent a worthwhile organization. 

Energetic, passionate and positive volunteers are needed to portray the Forest Preserve’s Willy Woodchuck mascot at programs and events. 

“As Willy, you’ll be an ambassador for the Forest Preserve District and a positive role model for environmental stewardship,” said Emily Kenny, the Forest Preserve’s volunteer service coordinator. “You’ll get to interact with people from all walks of life and inspire them to appreciate the natural beauty around them.”

To learn more about how you can get involved or to complete a volunteer waiver or application, visit the Forest Preserve’s Volunteer page or contact the Forest Preserve District’s volunteer program at [email protected].

“Help us keep the spirit of nature alive,” Kenny said. “And don’t forget to bring your best woodchuck impression!”

Individuals, groups of friends and families are encouraged to apply. More than one person is needed to help Willy get to all of his engagements. 

Willy volunteers can pick and choose the events they want to attend dressed as the bucktoothed woodchuck. Events where Willy makes an appearance include local festivals, community programs, nature hikes and more.

Qualifications include:

• A positive attitude and love for interacting with people of all ages.
• A willingness to wear the Willy costume and bring the character to life.
• Passion for promoting outdoor recreation, environmental education and wildlife conservation.
• The ability to be active for a few hours and tolerate the heat that can build up inside the costume.

While the role is volunteer only, those who portray Willy will be able to tap into their creative side and gain confidence while working with the public. 

“The role requires energy, enthusiasm and a little bit of imagination — all things that are bound to bring out the best in you,” Kenny said. 

Willy also gets to have a lot of fun, she added. 

“Dressing up as Willy means you get to bring smiles, laughter and excitement to events all around the county,” Kenny said. “You’ll be part of something fun and memorable that brings the community together.”

And one of the best rewards is seeing the love for Willy in the community.

“Children’s faces light up as soon as they spot them, eager to give high-fives, hugs or even join him for a dance party,” Kenny said. “Parents often comment on how Willy makes their kids excited about spending time outdoors, teaching them about local wildlife and environmental conservation in the most entertaining way possible. Willy does not talk but conveys his love for nature through movement and pantomime.”

'A symbol of natural beauty'

Willy is more than a costume, Kenny added. 

“Willy is a symbol of the natural beauty, environmental stewardship and family-friendly fun that the Forest Preserve District of Will County brings to the community,” she explained. “As the face of the District, Willy plays an essential role in helping people connect with nature in a way that’s approachable, fun and memorable. Whether they welcome visitors at Forest Preserve events, pose for photos with kids or spread excitement at local festivals, Willy brings joy wherever he goes.”

In addition to mascot volunteers, the Forest Preserve also is seeking volunteers who will help Willy navigate because visibility is limited inside the costume. 
Mascot training, the costume and support will be provided by the Forest Preserve.