VOC regularly highlights different VOC leaders, in all capacities, so that we can share with you the inspiring work they do to care for Colorado's outdoors! Here, we'd like to recognize Crew Leader Donna Driscoll.

Donna was first introduced to VOC by the late and beloved Curt Chitwood in 1991 on the 10,000 Trees project. "Those were the old days before augers, when we dug the holes for the trees by hand," says Donna.

Donna says her initial interest in VOC was to simply step outside and do something fun, while the concept of giving back to Colorado and getting involved in protecting lands grew as she went on more projects. 

"VOC offers a lot of diverse projects that provide fun opportunities as well as a chance to learn new skills," she says. One of Donna's most memorable projects was in Sand Creek in the Mesa Verde area. "I was amazed by the stunning views and cliff dwellings. Being an avid boater, I also enjoyed working on the headwaters of the Colorado River creating pools for habitats for indigenous fish and was humbled by standing atop one of the most important waterways in the nation."

While Donna is not entirely sure what prompted her to become a Crew Leader with VOC, she certainly has no regrets. "Perhaps I had the time in those days, but what a great decision it was. Over the years, being a Crew Leader has become more enjoyable and easier. It's delightful to see a group of people who often do not know each other and within minutes become a team. Volunteers continually amaze me by how quickly they pick up new skills such as building fences, planting trees, and creating trails," says Donna. 

For 17 years, up until 2007, Donna was the volunteer bookkeeper under the leadership of VOC's late executive director (serving 1988-1999), Dos Chappell. She has also served as a VOC Stewardship Educator. When not busy with VOC and other activities, Donna spends her time on the eastern plains with a cat, pig, chickens, and an American bulldog who loves to accompany her hiking and skiing.