Volunteer Spotlight - Gwen DeRupo

This month's volunteer spotlight shines on our very own Gwen DeRupo! A few short years ago, after a nest full of displaced blue jays was discovered in her neighbor's yard, Gwen stepped up and researched where to bring the orphaned babies, and she found us! Upon finding our organization and realizing we were in need of volunteers, Gwen signed up right away. At first, she was not sure how this position would work with her busy schedule, but now Gwen finds herself wondering how she will fit other activities around her volunteering schedule at The Raptor Trust! One of the most experienced volunteers here, Gwen, helps train newcomers and is always taking on new responsibilities - helping out wherever she can. Her favorite part of being here is getting to do this gratifying work outside, connecting with nature and the birds she's actively giving back to. Each week is an opportunity to learn and be around like-minded staff and volunteers. An added perk is also getting to see all of the wild turkeys, vultures, and ravens that call our corner of the Great Swamp home; it’s the best local nature show. Appreciating all of our unique and special bird friends, it is hard for Gwen to pick a favorite. But despite their bad public rep, she is partial to the often-overlooked pigeon with their never-ending humorous antics as they plot their escapes from the infirmary. After getting a chance to work closer with our resident raptors, Gwen is becoming more appreciative of the majesty of hawks as time goes on. Gwen says the whole experience here has been life-changing, and without this funky, worldly lady, TRT would not be the same. We thank you for all you do; we love you, Gwen!