Your Support Makes This Possible - Stories That Grow Here
Nature Summer Camp 2025
Sophia S
I loved Nature Camp because I got to be outside all day long, meet new friends and play with frogs! I even talked my Dad into letting me take one home!
Advanced Space Camp 2025
Greyson C.
This was my second year attending Space Camp at the Heidi Observatory. I enjoyed this level of engineering and physics Dr. Parker and Mr. Jocius made this class both fun and challenging. At the end of summer, I was asked to speak at the Observatory Gala, that was the highlight of my year!
Dave Ginger – Volunteer
As I approached retirement, I was looking for ways to be useful & productive, while capitalizing on my love of the outdoors. Volunteering at Hawthorn Hollow has been a great fit – working with the fantastic staff and other volunteers to help maintain the woods and prairies has been very rewarding.
Ginger Frydrych – FOHH
Hawthorn Hollow means the world to me. I love The Hollow, and I love the people who pour their passion into making it what it is. We’re all in it together, working as stewards to care for something bigger than ourselve, and that purpose follows me into my daily life. Over the years, as both a board member and a volunteer, I’ve learned so much: tapping maple trees, bottling honey, gardening, coordinating programs… skills I never imagined I’d gain. The people, the land, the experiences, this place has become my sanctuary, and I’m grateful for every moment it has given me.
Sandra Halmo – Volunteer
The light in children’s eyes when I told their tour that the first president voted for in the Town Hall was Abraham Lincoln, that the horsetail fern and ginkgo tree were “fossil plants” living in the time of dinosaurs, and the Arboretum is a “museum of trees” keeps me encouraging and supporting the vital mission of Hawthorn Hollow.
Leah Blanchard – Volunteer – Past Intern
I really enjoy coming and volunteering for Hawthorn Hollow for the beautiful scenery and working with wonderful people. I have learned a lot more about native plant species and non-native species. I fell in love with the sanctuary since I was an intern back in 2021 and always wanted to come back to relive my wonderful experience at Hawthorn. I support and believe in their mission.
Barbara Ullrich – Volunteer
I have been volunteering at Hawthorne Hollow for over 11 years in many capacities. The staff and volunteers create a supportive and friendly atmosphere that makes my time there feel both meaningful and fun. This heartfelt dedication by everyone is what makes Hawthorn Hollow such a special place.
Michele Caskey – Racine, Wi
Hawthorn Hallow has always had a special place in my heart. I was introduced to it by my mother, when I was a small girl in Girl Scout Brownies, like 1958 ish? She loved it too. As my leader, she took our troop there.
I learned that one the Teuscher sisters was my mom’s English teacher at Racine’s Park High School in the late 1940’s. I also learned at some point in my life that my mom and her friends skipped out of her high school classes and rode their bikes to Hawthorne.
Over the years, I have come alone and with friends. The year pictured, 2021, I requested going to Hawthorn as my Mother’s day gift. I think we all enjoyed being students again. As I went to Richards School on Hwy. 31 and Braun Rd., this classroom was reminiscent of my first years in school. It was so much fun showing this very special place to my husband, kids, in-laws and grandkids. Thanks for all your hard work in keeping it a very special place.
Joyce Miles – Volunteer
HH is a hidden gem smack dab between Racine & Kenosha counties. Not only does it offer hiking trails & ample opportunities to view Mother Nature & her many creatures & creations, but also the music nights, craft fair, observatory/ science events, Halloween Thrills & historical village setting that offers a glimpse into a bygone era — all combine to make it a unique opportunity & experience.
Additionally, the camaraderie between the staff, the volunteers & the visitors is a testament to the wonderful characteristics of the regional communities. As a non-native Wisconsinite, it has made the transition feel like a perfect move to a perfect place at the perfect time. Hawthorn Hollow is a unique & fabulous piece of nature. Plus, Hawthorn Hollow is a well kept secret that is getting out.
Ron Cascarano – Volunteer
Hawthorn Hollow, a natural oasis of flora and fauna for all to enjoy.
Checks can be mailed to 880 Green Bay Rd. Kenosha, Wi 53144
Thank you for your generous support.
