Every month we put a different VOC volunteer leader in the spotlight in order to recognize the inspiring work they do to care for Colorado's outdoors. In April, we are excited to announce Crew Chef Gail Ferber as our Featured Leader!

Gail's interest in nature and the outdoors began in her childhood. She grew up outside of Chicago to a mother who loved birds, wildflowers, and trees. Her father loved cowboys and the West, and she and her family spent many summers camping in Colorado. When it came time to find a college, she chose the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley - and after graduation became a permanent state resident!

"I spent the majority of my career as a statistical analyst for the Department of Labor and Employment, retiring in 2007," said Gail. "Since the 90s, I have volunteered for Denver Digs Trees performing site and tree survival inspections, working and managing various tree distributions." One time, in preparation for a large tree distribution, she enlisted her daughter and her daughter's boyfriend (now husband), Dan Williams, to help out. "Shortly after, Dan started working for VOC and suggested that I owed it to him to try a VOC project," said Gail. Gail and Dan agreed that working as a Crew Chef would be a good fit for her, given Gail's interest and experience in cooking. Her first VOC project was at Genesee Mountain Park, and she later completed the crew chef training and certification course. 

"Thus, began my VOC life. Last year, I served as a crew chef on five projects and worked alongside all the VOC cook greats: Rose, Lisa, Connie, and Janet," said Gail. "I love being a Crew Chef because I enjoy being outside, sometimes off the beaten path, and working as a team player. While preparing meals is not trail building, it is labor intensive and requires one to work as a team player. Plus, supplying meals to the 'troops' is definitely a contributing factor to making a positive impact on Colorado's natural habitat! I have enjoyed meeting and working with VOC people and plan to become a long-time volunteer," said Gail.