July Volunteer of the Month - Jen Blackburn

Last Updated 7/14/2025

Tell us a little about yourself!

I have a hobby farm with chickens and honeybees. I have a large garden for fresh veggies, a small fruit tree orchard with apples, peaches, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. I do a lot of food preservation and share my excess harvest with family and friends.

I enjoy camping and relaxing with friends. Between all of that and a full time job, I stay very busy!
I was previously on the board of Michigan Beekeepers Association as their communications director for about three years.

What event did you recently volunteer for? What did you like about it?

I have volunteered for Roper Romp as a Helen Herder for two years in a row. I love the event and just being out and about to help people find their way around Old Town is my jam.

Why did you choose to volunteer with the OTCA?

Volunteering in that capacity fills my social bucket. I get to chat with people and tell them about what is going on in Old Town while incognito as Helen Roper. There might be folks coming for Chalk of the Town and they didn't even know another event was going on at the same time. It is a fun day that showcases all of the amazing businesses in Old Town and brings a good crowd, especially when businesses could use a boost in sales.

A huge thank you to Jen for spending her Saturday with us on Romper Romp and the amazing energy she brought volunteering! We appreciate you! ❤️ OTCA