As the community partner to the Chicago Park District's Osterman Beach Natural Area, EEC volunteers restore and maintain natural dune and open sand habitats. These spaces allow beach-goers to discover and appreciate the beauty of nature in its many forms.

Volunteer workdays take place on Sundays and are led by trained Community Stewards. Activities differ by site and time of year, and can include tasks such as litter pickup, trail mulching, invasive plant removal, native plant installation, as well as nature-based activities like birding and plant identification walks. Come join us!

There are accessible places off paved pathways to sit; and water, bike racks, and restrooms right by the meeting place. The activities take place in mostly flat and sandy areas that may be difficult to traverse for people with mobility challenges.

Parking in the area is very limited to what you can find on nearby streets. Biking, walking, carpooling, or public transit is recommended.

Contact volunteer Community Stewards Renee and Jim at ostermanbeachnaturalarea@gmail.com with questions.

Follow along through our Facebook page.

Sign up for the Osterman Beach stewardship volunteer mailing list on this form.

All ages and experience levels are welcome, no RSVP needed.

2023 Dates

Sundays once a month April-October, 10:30am-12:30pm.

Meet at the south side of the beach house, just off Hollywood Ave. 

• 4/30

• 5/21 (2nd to last Sunday due to Memorial Day)

• 6/25

• 7/30

• 8/27

• 9/24

• 10/29