Volunteer Spotlight: ASEZ WAO

NPS Photo

On Sunday, June 29th, the park welcomed an incredible group of thirty young adults from the volunteer organization ASEZ WAO—part of a local branch of the International Church of God. They came to make a difference. With gloves on and hearts full, this energetic team took on one of our toughest challenges: removing invasive species from the historic grounds of Chatham.

Invasive plants like English ivy, Tree-of-Heaven, and Oriental Bittersweet pose a serious threat to the park’s resources. They tear through historic earthworks, suffocate native flora, and alter the landscape in ways that can’t easily be undone. But ASEZ WAO wasn’t daunted. The group reached out to the park all the way back in January, hoping to start a recurring service project—and true to their word, they showed up in full force, ready to work in temperatures nearing 100 degrees.

Armed with loppers and unstoppable optimism, the crew worked under the blazing sun, cutting and stacking mountains of invasive vines. They navigated thorny brush, dodged poison ivy, and even braved a surprise encounter with a wasp’s nest. Three young women were stung multiple times—but after a break and some ice, they still smiled through the stings—and said they’d be back!

Once the hard work was finished, the team gathered for a group photo in the newly cleared area—a space where native plants now have room to breathe, and where history and nature are once again visible, thanks to their efforts.

The impact ASEZ WAO made in just one day is immeasurable, and their enthusiasm is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a group of dedicated people come together in service to their community. We are so deeply grateful for their time, energy, and courage.