A Day of Dirt, Discovery, and Doing Good—Fun for the Whole Family!
Friends of Chehalem Trails invites you to roll up your sleeves and join the community at Friends Park Volunteer Day, happening Saturday, April 26 from 9am to 4pm in Newberg. This Arbor Day weekend celebration offers hands-on opportunities to plant trees, restore the natural habitat, and beautify a beloved local park—while connecting with neighbors.
In partnership with Chehalem Park and Recreation District (CPRD), local non-profits, and stewardship organizations, Friends of Chehalem Trails is hosting Friends Park Volunteer Day—a day dedicated to revitalizing one of Newberg’s most cherished green spaces. Volunteers of all ages and experience levels are invited to dig in, remove invasive plants, beautify the landscape, and plant trees that will provide natural habitat and shade for generations to come.
The event takes place at Friends Park, located at Corinne Drive and Kennedy Drive in Newberg. To accommodate more volunteers and reduce congestion, attendees are encouraged to walk, bike, or carpool. Grace Baptist Church (1619 E 2nd St) has generously offered overflow parking, an easy half-mile stroll from the park.
This year’s event carries special meaning. In 2024, Friends Park faced potential loss when a proposed land swap threatened to cut into its natural space. Brandon Slyter, a local nonprofit leader and neighbor of the park, organized a successful grassroots effort to stop the swap—resulting in not only the protection of the park but the addition of five new acres now preserved for public use.
“Our parks belong to the people. Friends Park is more than just open space—it’s where our kids play, where we connect with neighbors, and where nature thrives,” said Slyter. “When we stand up together, we can protect the places that matter most.”
At the February CPRD Board meeting, Chair Matt Smith praised the effort: “You did a great job with your community outreach with the neighborhood and that community that really relies on and loves Friends Park.”
Slyter is helping lead this year’s Volunteer Day, and he’s not alone. Dozens of organizations are collaborating to make the event a success, including Yamhill Soil and Water Conservation District, Sustainable Solutions Group, American Hiking Society, and many more.
Event co-leader Matt Dolphin sees the day as part of something bigger. “This isn’t just about pulling weeds or planting trees,” said Dolphin. “It’s about coming together as a community. Friends of Chehalem Trails is building a movement—one that connects people to the land, to each other, and to a shared vision for a greener future for our kids.”
Whether you’re a seasoned trail builder or just want to give back, there’s a place for you. Two volunteer shifts—morning and afternoon—ensure flexibility. No tools? No problem! Everything you need will be provided, along with guidance and camaraderie.
What to Expect:
✅ Work alongside community members & trail advocates
✅ Help plant trees, remove invasive plants, and improve trails
✅ Learn about sustainable park maintenance and conservation
✅ Enjoy time outdoors while making a lasting impact
No experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm! Tools, gloves, and guidance will be provided.
What to Bring:
• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
• Gloves (if you have them – we’ll have extras!)
• A great attitude! 😃
📌 Parking:
• Parking is extremely limited at Friends Park and the surrounding residential neighborhood. We encourage you to walk, bike, or carpool to the event.
• Offsite Parking at 1619 E 2nd St, Newberg, OR 97132. Grace Baptist Church has generously offered their parking lot for offsite/overflow parking. If you are able, please use the offsite parking and enjoy a 0.5 mile walk to the park with other volunteers.