Volunteer
Charlie Spence
Growing things is in Charlie Spence’s blood, thanks to growing up with parents who were avid gardeners. He has lent his passion and expertise to the community flower garden in Clairton as the volunteer garden steward, even leading the installation of a pollinator-friendly section that attracts bees and butterflies.
What year did you begin volunteering with us and what motivates you to stay involved?
2012. The Clairton garden had been sorely neglected and needed a steward, I jumped at the chance. And why? To watch a strip of dirt turn into an incredible blooming garden is very rewarding.
How did you first become involved with WPC?
I ran into the woman who had been WPC’s Garden Volunteer Coordinator at another meeting. The Clairton garden needed a steward…next thing I knew, I had a garden.
What has surprised you most about working with WPC?
The true enjoyment of working not only with my garden and my team of dedicated volunteers, but also working with the staff. They are wonderful people who are always willing to lend a hand. As my schedule permits, I also enjoy showing up at other gardens to lend a hand, get some ideas for my own garden and meet new people.
Tell us about your favorite volunteer experience at WPC.
The thing I enjoy most about volunteering with WPC is working with a garden in a heavily polluted location that, despite the odds, thrives every single year, and provides a bright spot in an otherwise gritty industrial area”
What advice do you have for someone who is considering volunteering for WPC?
Take the plunge! Call and ask where you can help. You meet new people and get gardening tips. Honestly, just have a lot of fun. At my garden we laugh the whole time.
What do you do when you’re not volunteering (such as other hobbies or work)?
I have a medium-sized yard, with a garden that I have nurtured, planned and re-arranged for about 35 years. I love to read, love to travel. Although I am retired, I am involved with a few other non-profits that operate in the Pittsburgh region, serving on their boards, so I keep quite busy.
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I am addicted to Netflix, preferably watching foreign movies and TV series.
The following lists some of the ways you can volunteer at the Conservancy. We welcome volunteers to help in our community flower gardens, plant trees or maintain our preserves and trails, among other tasks. View a list of our current or upcoming volunteer opportunities and register for one today.