April 17, 2025
April is National Volunteer Month. A time to recognize the incredible individuals who give their time and energy to support others. Established in 1974, this month-long celebration shines a light on the more than 60 million Americans who volunteer each year—and encourages others to get involved, especially young people and first-time volunteers.
At Palatine Park District, we’re proud to work with so many dedicated volunteers who help bring our events and programs to life. Meet three individuals who are making a difference in our community.
Madelyn Rose is a sophomore at Palatine High School. She’s active on the color guard team and a member of the school’s health care club. On top of that, she volunteers with Palatine Park District.
Rose started volunteering at dog-themed events like the Hound Egg Hunt and Santa Paws. She originally decided to volunteer because she needed volunteer hours for school. “The Santa Paws event was coming up and I love dogs, so I decided it was the perfect event for me,” she said. “I had done several summer camps at the park district but was getting too old for most of the camps. It was the perfect solution to still be involved in the park district’s activities,” she said.
What surprised her most about volunteering? “I didn’t know just how fun it was going to be,” she said. “I figured it would be like working a job but it’s so much fun and the people who run the events, as well as other volunteers, are amazing to be around! I’ve always loved helping when I can and it’s just fun to be able to participate in events.”
Kevin Bencal is no stranger to the Park District sidelines. Over the past five years, he’s become a familiar face as a volunteer coach for flag football, tackle football, House League Basketball, Vikings Select Travel Basketball, and Little Strikers Soccer.
“I have two boys, 10 and 7 who love playing sports,” he explained. “It’s a short period of time to be involved, so it’s worth the time. As a resident of Palatine, it only made sense to stay local.”
An added benefit of volunteering is making connections with others. “You get to know a lot of people, from other coaches, the staff at the park district, parents, and of course all the kids,” he said. “I like to see not only my kids succeed but other kids succeed as well. There is nothing better than watching a first touchdown, scoring in basketball, and teaching them how to be a team. I love watching the progress of when we first start a season to the end of the season – how much the kids learn. If I can teach them the fundamentals along with having fun to where they come back the following year, there is no better feeling.”
Bencal encourages others to give volunteering a shot. “You can impact kids’ lives more than you think,” he said. You become more involved in the community which is never a bad thing.”
Nadelyn Gonzalez is a graphic arts and marketing student at Harper College—and a volunteer who’s been giving back for six years. Despite a full schedule of art projects and competitions, she always makes time to volunteer in her community.
”I decided to volunteer because I believe in giving back to my community,” she said. “Coming from a background where my family received support when we needed it, I understand the importance of helping one another. Also, being part of the Harper Promise program requires me to complete volunteer hours, but beyond that, I find great fulfillment in contributing and making a difference in the lives of others.”
Gonzalez has volunteered at Hound Egg Hunt, Date Night, Halloween Party, Big Trucks, Turkey Trot, and many others. “Each experience has been unique and rewarding,” she said.
She was surprised about the fun events you get to do when volunteering – “It isn’t just picking up trash and such,” she said.
Volunteering has motivated her to contribute more to the community, provided her valuable skills and experiences, and a profound sense of purpose. “It also reminds me to stay humble and grateful for what I have. Seeing people’s smiles makes me happy that I can bring joy to people.”
National Volunteer Month is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can create big change. Take the first step today and get involved by visiting palatineparks.galaxydigital.com
Palatine Park District is a place for you to make a difference!
