Spend a day making a lasting difference at one of the Quad Cities' most treasured historic landmarks. During the United Way Day of Caring, volunteers will work alongside the Friends of Hauberg Civic Center Foundation to preserve and enhance both the historic mansion and its beautiful grounds.
Built between 1909 and 1911, the Hauberg Estate is one of the Midwest's finest Prairie School homes. Designed by architect Robert C. Spencer, with landscapes by nationally renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen, the estate has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. The property was donated to the City of Rock Island by the Hauberg family in 1956 so future generations could enjoy and learn from this remarkable community treasure.
Today, volunteers are helping write the next chapter in the estate's history through restoration of the historic Jensen landscape and the development of the Hauberg Children's Art Garden. Inspired by Jens Jensen's belief that children learn best through direct experiences in nature, the Art Garden is becoming an outdoor classroom where young people can explore art, science, ecology, gardening, and local history through hands-on STEAM activities. Native plantings, historic gardens, and restored natural features provide opportunities to connect children with the region's environmental heritage while fostering creativity and stewardship.
Volunteer projects may include:
- Weeding, mulching, and restoring historic flower beds and gardens
- Planting native trees, shrubs, and pollinator-friendly perennials
- Removing invasive vegetation and improving natural areas
- Preparing the Children's Art Garden and educational spaces
- General grounds cleanup and landscape beautification
- Interior cleaning and organization of the historic mansion
- Dusting and caring for historic rooms and architectural features
- Light painting and maintenance projects as appropriate
- Organizing supplies and supporting ongoing preservation efforts
No previous experience is necessary. Volunteers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Tools, supplies, safety instruction, and project leadership will be provided.
By volunteering, you'll help preserve an irreplaceable piece of Quad Cities history while creating a welcoming place where thousands of visitors, students, families, and community organizations gather each year. Your efforts will help ensure the Hauberg Estate remains a living landmark—connecting history, nature, education, and the arts for generations to come.
