This month's volunteer spotlight shines on Matt Brill, our Thursday food prep and cage cleaning volunteer. Matt always had an appreciation of the outdoors as a kid, so volunteering at The Raptor Trust had been in the back of his mind for years. When the time finally came, and he was able to give back to his community, we were lucky for Matt to choose our organization. For the last two years, Matt has been a dedicated volunteer, coming each week to care for our injured birds with a positive attitude. As Matt has gained more experience, he has become one of our go-to volunteer trainers, showing newcomers the ropes and representing our organization.
Matt says it is hard to pick what his favorite part of being at TRT is, but it may be watching these birds heal and the sense of peace and connection with the natural world he wouldn’t otherwise have without this opportunity. Matt says, “When I’m outside in the swamp working with the birds early in the morning, I’m able to pause and reflect more easily on our impact on the environment and our place within it.” In addition to that, Matt has built long-lasting friendships here at The Raptor Trust with fellow volunteers and staff members which have made his time here even more meaningful.
His favorite bird is the Blue Jay, and getting to know the personalities of our patients while in care is a source of endless entertainment on every shift. Matt also encourages others to help, pointing out that there are always ways to give back to the community, and to continue to learn and grow. Matt is stepping away from TRT for a bit to study in Italy, but we hope to see him again when he returns. Thank you for all you have done for us - we wish you luck on your next great adventure. TRT will not be the same without you!
