Animal Care Assistant Mentoring Program (ACAMP) at the Oakbrook Terrace Park District Lake View Nature Center
Overview
The Oakbrook Terrace Park District’s Lake View Nature Center is proud to offer Animal Care Assistant Mentoring Program (ACAMP). ACAMP is a volunteer program designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. We are dedicated to promoting and strengthening the knowledge and care of local wildlife. Through animal care and outdoor opportunities, we create a safe, inclusive environment where individuals can learn important, transferable job skills geared toward independence and personal growth. The ACAMP program gives individuals with disabilities a chance to work in a unique setting. Participants will help care for the animals at the Nature Center, giving them the chance to connect with both people and animals in a hands-on way. In addition to animal care, ACAMP participants will also perform tasks meant to help the Nature Center, the surrounding park, and the environment as a whole.
Goals of the program include:
- Increased independence and confidence
- Knowledge of animal needs and behaviors
- Ability to follow specific written instructions
- Time management skills
- Organizational skills
- Increased appreciation for the natural world
Getting Started
If you are interested in being part of our ACAMP family, or you would like more information or have questions, please reach out to Kate Johns, Nature Center Manager, at kate@obtpd.org or 630-941-8747. We will send you the program application form and work with you to schedule an orientation meeting.
