When the volunteer of the month for July moved to Columbus to get a masters degree from Ohio State University, he knew he wanted to make the place feel like home and one of the best ways to do that is through service to the community.

Doug Hermanson now calls Columbus home and works as a retail consultant in the area, since graduating from OSU.

Hermanson, a native of Cincinnati who has been in Columbus for four years now, first joined the charity group Columbus Gives Back. Then last April that group gave him the opportunity to sign up for a Friends of Goodale Park workday and he jumped at the chance.

"I just like to come out and work hard and have a good time," Hermanson said. "I like being able to build the community just through the process of lending a hand at the park."

And by offering a lending hand, he has made some friendships along the way.

"Through the process you see the same people and you build up friendships and camaraderie with those people," he said.

Since April he has been to almost every single workday. He said that what it's all about to him is doing what he can to bring the community together. One of his favorite chores in the park, however, was when he had the chance to plant several pine trees near Buttles Avenue.

"I think that's kind of cool being able to frequent the park and see the trees," Hermanson said. "That's probably my favorite thing, but all of the tasks are fun in their own way."

Not only does Hermanson like to head to the park to read a book or hangout with his friends, he also enjoys hiking in Hocking Hills and riding his bike on the Olentangy River Trail.

But the trails aren't the only place Hermanson likes to explore; he also enjoys something that he calls "urban exploring."

"Sometimes I just like to do urban exploring so I'll end up shooting around the Short North checking out shops," Hermanson said. "But often I'll cut through the park for a change of pace."

When he is not enjoying nature or the streets of downtown, Hermanson, a drummer and amateur guitarist himself, loves to watch live music, such as at the Goodale Park Music Festival throughout the summer.

"Being in Columbus for four years, I'm still trying to get to know the place," Hermanson said. "This is one area that has got a great sense of community and the park is a great central location for that."