A Decade of Service

Friends of Ouabache celebrates 10 years of volunteer work

By Kathy Schwartz

The Friends of Ouabache are celebrating their 10 years of service to Ouabache State Park. Those 10 years are filled with many projects, loads of volunteer hours and mostly a dedication to the mission of the group.

The Mission of the Friends of Ouabache states:

The Friends of Ouabache State Park are stewards of our natural and cultural resources, serving our community to provide interpretation and volunteer opportunities in an effort to remember past contributions and to promote and preserve our park for future generations.

The Friends support the park both financially and physically. All proceeds earned by the members and donations to the Friends group go solely to Ouabache State Park. They have purchased a variety of items that are used in maintaining the park or enhancing visitors’ experiences.

Events that have been created or supported by the Friends group include The Wonderland of Lights, Nature Lovers Lunch and Learn, Fall Fest activities, Indiana Master Naturalist, Junior/Teen Indiana Master Naturalist Camp, Blue Bird Brigade, and Wednesday Warriors. Each event could not have happened without the substantial number of volunteers and financial support.

The Friends group works closely with the park naturalist and assists in interpretive programs. Education is an important part of the group’s mission, for with education comes understanding, connection and enthusiasm to preserve that which is valued.

The Friends of Ouabache prides itself on its partnership with community organizations. The grant application committee works endlessly in securing grants and donations pertaining to old and new projects. Sponsorships for the Wonderland of Lights have contributed to its continual growth in the amount and frequency of the event.

In the 10 years, membership has grown. It began with 12 individuals and has blossomed to more than 125. Members are encouraged to find their niche and use their unique interest and talents to serve the park. This ranges from mowing, gardening and trail maintenance, to photography, fundraising, organizing, public speaking, writing and editing, and beyond. Each member is a valuable piece to the success of the group.

Members can’t wait to see what the next 10 years hold. Come and join this group of enthusiastic and energetic souls that make Ouabache a special place to be.

Celebrating a Decade of Friends

The Friends of Ouabache will celebrate 10 years of service to Ouabache State Park with several activities. The group wishes to thank all the people that have given of their time, energy, and financial support over the past 10 years.

Oct. 14

The Ouabache Fall Fest Scavenger Hunt will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The starting point will be at Trails End Shelter and will take participants throughout the park in search of fall displays. Participants will be asked to solve a clue to find each site and then take a photo at the site. Also included will be a photo op with a very large dragon that has dropped in for the day. Upon completion of the search, each group will be given a ticket to enter a drawing for door prizes. A good will offering would be appreciated to help with expenses.

Oct. 21

The day will begin with a Pancake and Sausage Breakfast. It will be held at the Trails End Shelter from 7 - 10 a.m. A good will offering would be appreciated. Be sure to bring your appetite. There will be displays showing the history of the Friends of Ouabache and its contributions to the park.

A cider press demonstration will be held at the Trails End Shelter at 1 p.m. Participants are encouraged to assist in the demonstration and get to taste the fruits of their labor. There is no charge for this event.

A Cornhole Tournament will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the Campground entrance. Prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the event. Sign up at site of tournament.