Jeff Gahris
Jeff, a 35-year resident of DuPage County, has long been active with the River Prairie Group of the Sierra Club, the DuPage Clean Energy Coalition, Illinois Solar Energy Association, and Citizens Climate Lobby. He currently serves as Chair of River Prairie Group’s Executive Committee. In 2019, he was elected to the DuPage Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners. Jeff worked for state and federal agencies implementing Clean Air Act programs before retiring. Now he enjoys hiking and cycling in natural areas such as the DuPage Forest Preserves, explores permaculture and the local food economy, and is a solar energy enthusiast and public speaker. As a Solar Ambassador, Jeff is concerned with a just transition to renewable energy. He also advocates for preservation and restoration of natural areas, and public access to those green spaces.
Wendy Vernon
Serving on the River Prairie Group Executive Committee has been a rewarding opportunity to combine my passion for the environment with meaningful action, and I’m eager to continue this important work. I currently serve as Secretary and Plastic Reduction Chair on the RPG Ex-Com and actively participate on the Lobby Team. Beyond my Sierra Club work, I’m a Solar Ambassador with the Illinois Solar Education Association and serve on the boards of the Greater DuPage Chapter of the Wild Ones and the DuPage Organic Garden Club. My personal passions include vegetable gardening, cultivating native plants to support wildlife habitat, cooking, sewing, and reducing plastic waste, all of which reflect my deep commitment to sustainability and conservation. I look forward to continuing to bring my experience and dedication to the RPG Ex-Com as we work together to create positive environmental change.
Micheal Ondek
I want to be on the Executive Committee of the River Prairie Group because I want to positively influence the natural world. I have only been a Sierra Club member for a few years, but I have been trying to get more involved and have a greater impact. I recently started working with the Water Sentinels by testing local water samples. I have done call-banking for the Sierra Club to help advance politically aligned candidates and this year attended my first Lobby Day. I also attended my first Sierra Club Outing this year and decided I want to be a trip leader. I am trying to find ways to work within the Sierra Club to change our local community and the state overall for the better. I think being a member of the Executive Committee would be a good position to help make that change.
