Training Support Center's (TSC) Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) Sailors are doing their part to help improve the environment.

Every Thursday a group of Sailors travel to the Independence Grove 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.

"We are very grateful that the Sailors come out to volunteer," said Herman Weimer, civilian volunteer. "I'm 80 years old, and we have other volunteers that are near 90. At times, the work is hard to do by ourselves. Having these young folks out here is a real blessing."

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

"It is busy work; we mulch and lay gravel to help plants grow," said Electronics Technician Seaman Darrell Green, president of CSADD, "but it is worth it. I like making a difference and leaving a good environmental footprint."

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.

"I think it is important for the kids to see that the environment is filled with different types of plants and trees and not just concrete," said Fire Controlman 3rd Class Alejandro Castillo, community service coordinator for CSADD. "And, there is more to life than just staring a screen. They can go out to the forest preserves to explore and swim in the lake."

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

"In the past, I have not done a lot of volunteering," said Fire Controlman 3rd Class Kenneth Stephen, vice president of CSADD. "That changed when I joined CSADD. It feels good to do something for someone else. I feel a great sense of pride."

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