Jack Voelker retired in 2015 after a 40 year career as a recreation professional in both municipal and private non-profit settings, and more than 50 years serving youth in a wide variety of environments. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Jack and his wife Diane grew up in the suburbs of Buffalo, NY, lived in West Philadelphia and for the past 46 years have enjoyed life in rural southwestern NYS in their 1850 farmhouse on 65 acres. Together they initiated a monarch butterfly project with their local school district, leading 4th graders in habitat restoration. Their property is not only home to a large organic garden but is also a certified Monarch Waystation through Monarch Watch at the University of Kansas. Jack has grown hops on the farm but that’s a story for another day. He is a published author, including a children’s book (Grandpa John’s Ivy) and his nature photographs have appeared in publications as well. A frequent presenter at regional events and at NYS Recreation and Parks Society annual conferences, Jack has served as Conference Chair and Program Chair. In 2015 he was given the Distinguished Service Award, the Society’s highest honor.
624 views • posted 07/31/2020
