Training Support Center's (TSC) Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) Sailors are doing their part to help improve the environment working in Independence Grove Forest Preserve August 2.

Every Thursday a group of Sailors travel to the forest preserve in Libertyville to maintain the forest and its natural beauty by clearing out invasive species of plants and replacing them with trees and plants native to northern Illinois. In addition to this, volunteers also help to maintain a community garden.

"Sailors assisting us means that any large plant that needs to be planted will be planted," said Bob Rizzolo, Independence Grove Forest Preserve volunteer coordinator. "They are an awesome group of young strong men and women that help with digging, carrying, weeding and mulching. Without them we wouldn't be able to function here. Most of the people here are in the 70's and 80's, there are a couple in their 90's, they just don't have the physical strength to do that type of work."

The volunteer Sailors are happy to help out and understand they are making a difference.

"Volunteering at the Forest Preserve and Independence Grove is both a treat and an honor," said Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class Gina Santaquilani, president of CSADD Great Lakes. "Not only is it pleasing to be able to go outside and encounter nature during a time of work, but just knowing that we, as Sailors, are able to help save many elderly civilians from hurting themselves in the heat or from heavy lifting, it's quite impactful."

Sailors help to double the numbers of the total volunteer force. Not only does the work get done faster, but the forest preserve is beautifully shaped and cultivated for the enjoyment of anyone interested in the many activities the forest preserve provides.

"Starting our Navy careers as just students and having not been to the fleet, it's sometimes hard to see the impact that is being made in joining the military," Santaquilani said. "Through volunteering, we have the ability to directly see the amount of assistance and saving we are providing to the world."

Program leaders coordinate transportation, meals, events, and inform volunteers of forest preserve policies. Volunteer hours are logged, and a monthly account is filed.

"The work that the Sailors do is not just a help for us," Rizzolo said. "They are helping to preserve this pristine location and their work enhances the experience people have when they see the result of their labor. We would be lost without these Sailors."


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