Blog  January 18, 2013

Green City Gal: Shell Chen

Shell Chen keeping the fires going at the skating trail (Photo: Becky Lamb)

By Taylor Evans, EBW Skating Programmer

It’s often the unexpected in life that keeps it interesting. Shell Chen wasn’t looking to volunteer with Evergreen when she discovered the website, after her mouse landed her there through incorrect Google search. Instead of scurrying away, she explored Evergreen and its philosophies online and, with her interests piqued, decided to get involved and explore Evergreen Brick Works in person. Shell applied to volunteer and has been a constant around the site since last summer!

Shell’s love for the diversity of the space has given her the opportunity to participate in many different roles—from working with the Farmers’ Market and Chimney Court, to helping with school programming and guided site hikes. This winter, Shell continues with the Saturday Farmers’ Market while lacing on her blades for public skating.

One recent Saturday, we found Shell providing countless smiles to young skaters as she handed out cups of hot cocoa and handfuls of fire-popped popcorn next to the ice trail. One of the great benefits of volunteering with the skating program has been an opportunity to practice. Each time she steps on the ice, Shell says she feels “a little bit more confident and more comfortable.”

Asked over a cup of hot chocolate what she loves most about volunteering with Evergreen, Shell speaks to the sense of community. The Brick Works and the people who work, volunteer and visit encourage “the sharing of everything with everybody: attitudes, energy and stories.”

Next time you see Shell around EBW, make sure you say hello!

Evergreen is always looking for passionate volunteers like Shell. If you or someone you know might be interested in volunteering with Evergreen, visit our Get Involved pages online to learn more.