SIU's STEM Education Research Center Offers Service-learning Opportunities

Volunteer events in Shawnee National Forest's Panther Den Wilderness area

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Southern Illinois University Carbondale's STEM Education Research Center is hosting two upcoming volunteer service-learning days in the Shawnee National Forest's Panther Den Wilderness area in Union County. The separate events, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, are scheduled for February 22 and March 22, and are open to the public, particularly SIU Carbondale students, faculty and staff.

Why it matters

The service-learning days provide an opportunity for participants to engage in hands-on environmental stewardship and experiential education, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the Shawnee National Forest. These events align with SIU's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

The details

Volunteers will spend the morning assisting with trail maintenance and the early afternoon enjoying a guided hike. Participants should bring lunch, a water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing, and be ready to learn. The events will take place at the Panther Den Trailhead, and online registration is required.

  • The service-learning day on February 22 will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • The service-learning day on March 22 will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The players

STEM Education Research Center

A research center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale that focuses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.

U.S. Forest Service

A federal agency that manages and protects the national forests and grasslands.

Stephen Gariepy

The outreach coordinator and experiential education specialist with SIU's STEM Education Research Center.

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What they’re saying

“Volunteers should bring lunch, a water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing, and be ready to learn.”

— Stephen Gariepy, Outreach coordinator and experiential education specialist (SIU NEWS)

The takeaway

These service-learning days provide a valuable opportunity for the community to engage in hands-on environmental stewardship and experiential education, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the Shawnee National Forest. The events align with SIU's commitment to sustainability and community engagement, and offer a chance for students, faculty, and staff to make a positive impact on the local environment.