Volunteer At Danada
Danada is more than a pretty place to visit. It is a working equestrian center, a historic farm, and a living archive of the Rice family story. Volunteers are the bridge that keeps all of that moving. If you love horses, history, open space, or simply helping people feel welcome, we would be glad to have you on the team.
This volunteer application supports four main areas:
You can select one or both on the form.
Why Your Help Matters
Friends of Danada works in partnership with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County to care for this place and share its story. Volunteers help:
Keep public programs running smoothly
Support staff at the Danada Equestrian Center
Care for gardens and outdoor spaces around Danada House and the Model Farm
Preserve photos, documents, and objects that tell the Dan and Ada Rice story
Every hour you give helps visitors experience Danada as a real, working site rather than just a photograph in a book.
Ways To Volunteer
At The Danada Equestrian Center
Equestrian volunteers support staff with horse programs and public events. Typical tasks may include:
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Greeting visitors and answering basic questions about the horses and facility
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Helping with leading, grooming, and tack checks during educational programs (training provided)
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Assisting with horse shows, demonstrations, and special events
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Helping with barn organization and light chores as assigned
Hands-on work with horses is supervised, and training is provided for approved roles. Experience around horses is helpful but not required for every position. A calm, steady attitude around animals and people is most important. Pleae fill out the volunteer form at dupageforest.org or click the button below.
At Danada Farm And The History Committee
History volunteers help keep the Danada story alive. Opportunities can include:
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Assisting with tours and open house events at Danada House, the Model Farm, and displays
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Helping set up and host programs, lectures, and the Danada Fall Festival history area
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Working with photos, documents, and artifacts in the History Committee collection
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Light research to support exhibits, website content, and educational materials
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Garden and grounds projects around historic areas, as needed
If you enjoy organizing, listening to stories, working with old photos, or helping visitors feel comfortable, this side of the work is a good fit. Please send you application to director@danadahouse.org
