Keeping greenspaces clean with Mike Kerfeld!

Meet Mike Kerfeld, a volunteer dedicated to not only food insecurity, and housing affordability, but also sustainability. He is a member of our Civic Leadership Program, and describes himself as tall, positive and open-minded, all the makings of a fantastic volunteer!

Read more about Mike in our interview below!  

Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?

Piedmont Park Conservancy

What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?

Food insecurity and housing affordability are the two issues that stand out to me, because of their depth and breadth across neighborhoods across Atlanta.

What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?

I love Piedmont Park because it is a massive, beautiful public space where one can find Atlanta residents from all over the city. I volunteer my time doing clean up work and landscaping to maintain its beauty and hopefully keep people coming back!

How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?

I have met great people from all over the world while volunteering at the Park. I find myself having diverse conversations that enrich my perspective and keep me curious.

What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?

I am now a seasoned operator of a Carryall with Dump Bed! Also my landscaping and general communication skills have leveled up during my time volunteering.

Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?

One morning I borrowed a pressure washer from the local Home Depot and spent the day enhancing the area around the clubhouse. There's something very satisfying about power washing and seeing others enjoy your work afterward!

Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people, places, things to do, etc.

Atlanta is a special place and its people have impacted the world in so many ways. Its diversity in people, ecosystems, and industry is second to none, and I think people are proud to call Atlanta home. From civil rights to music to sports to food to lots of other areas, Atlanta has truly influenced everything.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?

Make an account at handsonatlanta.org and start signing up for projects! It's super easy and so very fulfilling.

Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.

Join me at the park on April 28 for my regular Sunday Mornings at the Park! Sign up at handsonatlanta.org. View all Piedmont Park Conservancy Volunteer Opportunities.