Faces of Greenbelt: Laurie Hark, Volunteer, Educator, Donor

Over the past three years, Laurie Hark has built something of a loyal fanbase as the organizer and walk leader for Greenbelt’s Senior Strolls Series. Her outings fill quickly, each drawing 20–25 people, thanks to her engaging blend of local history, nature interpretation, and lively storytelling. “Oh, I definitely have my regulars,” she says with playful modesty.

A big part of Laurie’s appeal is the time she puts into researching each property — its history, unique characteristics, and surrounding community — so she can weave in colorful details as she leads a walk. “I try to choose properties that not only have gentle terrain that’s easy to navigate, but also interesting stories to tell,” she explains.

When Laurie leads a stroll through the Elizabeth Howe Reservation in Ipswich, for example — the site of the 17th-century homestead of its namesake, who was accused of practicing witchcraft during the Salem witch hysteria — she brings that history to life by discussing the Salem Witch Trials and imagining what everyday life might have been like in the 1600s and 1700s.

“That’s what makes it fun for me, learning about the property and local history,” she says. “I often thank the people on my walks for attending, because without them, I wouldn’t have gained all this new knowledge.”

Throughout her career and into retirement, Laurie has maintained a deep love of learning and teaching. She devoted 30 years to special education in Peabody and Marblehead — her hometown of more than 40 years — and later served as a Director at the North Shore Education Consortium.

After retiring in 2005, Laurie continued teaching in a variety of volunteer settings that allowed her to gain new skills and expertise. She spent 15 years as a field guide for Mass Audubon and continues to serve as a docent at the Peabody Essex Museum and lead walks for the Marblehead Conservancy.

In 2023, she was wooed to Greenbelt by Mary Ellen Kelly, a friend from Mass Audubon who was then Greenbelt’s Volunteer Coordinator and now serves as a Board member. Mary Ellen believed Laurie would be a perfect fit for the Senior Strolls Series.

Laurie’s early enthusiasm led to an invitation to join Greenbelt’s Outdoor Adventure Team (GOATs), a select group of community ambassadors trained to help lead and support outdoor programs and outings. In addition to leading her own popular strolls, Laurie assists with other guided walks and occasionally helps in the office and at public events.

“I’ve volunteered at a number of organizations over the years, and Greenbelt is really one of the best,” she says. “You feel like you’re adding value and are truly appreciated as a member of the community.”