Prairie Partners name Volunteer of the Year

The Goose Lake Prairie Partners have selected Jan Alexander as the Prairie Partners Volunteer of the Year for 2020.
A resident of Oswego, Alexander joined the Prairie Partners in 2010.
During her first couple of years with the Prairie Partners she was especially keen on demonstrating quilting during the annual Cabin Festivals. However, as the group experienced low return on the profits of serving sandwiches during its festivals, they were looking for ways to make a profit from the service.
Alexander stepped up and a took a certification class allowing her to cook at Cabin Festival and Prairie Day. She found a grill that had been discarded, repaired it and delivered it to the park.
Instead of having to hire a cook with a grill, the Prairie Partners now enjoy grilling independence. Recently, the group was gifted with a new grill and report they will continue to achieve raising funds for education its visitors with the contributions Alexander has willingly given to the park and the organization that serves as the volunteer arm of the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area [GLPSNA].
The Prairie Partners report that when in the food tent, Alexander’s presence brings camaraderie and laughter to make for a joyful day.
Alexander has also been an asset to the organizations project planning. Her voice has been heard on many occasions with thoughtful contributions to discussions, be it in a meeting or over the phone.
As Volunteer of the Year for 2020, Alexander’s name has been added to the Honor Roll of volunteers recognized for their contributions to the Goose Lake Prairie Partners, GLPSNA and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The plaque of volunteers recognized for their contributions hangs in the GLPSNA Visitors Center, 5010 N. Jugtown Rd., Morris.