Tracey Tackett & Glen Helen: A Natural Asset, a Community Partner
Everyone benefits from the Glen. The Dayton Business Journal named the Glen one of the top 10 most visited attractions in the Dayton region. This is a wonderful opportunity to attract visitors from both within and beyond Ohio, bringing benefits to the entire area.
-Tracey Tackett, Development Manager, Glen Helen
In a recent episode of Chamber Insights, Tracey Tackett, Development Manager of Glen Helen Nature Preserve, joined the conversation virtually to share the powerful story of Glen Helen’s role in Yellow Springs and beyond. Tackett not only highlighted the preserve’s natural beauty but also answered five key questions that reveal why Glen Helen is such a treasured and impactful part of our local economy and community.
How did you get started at Glen Helen?
A lifelong resident of Springfield, Ohio, Tracey Tackett brings a strong background in nonprofit leadership, public policy, and community engagement. With years of experience leading strategic development initiatives, she joined Glen Helen with a clear vision: to strengthen the preserve’s mission and deepen its connection to the local community. Her passion for nature and commitment to local impact made Glen Helen the perfect fit.
Why is Glen Helen so special to so many people?
Glen Helen spans over 1,100 acres and features more than 20 miles of public trails, 2.5 miles of the National Scenic Little Miami River, limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and the iconic yellow spring that gave Yellow Springs its name. It’s home to a vibrant range of natural and educational offerings, including:
Trailside Museum – the newly reopened visitor welcome center
Vernet Ecological Center – with an auditorium, nature shop, and gallery
Outdoor Education Center – offering overnight programs and camps
Raptor Center – rehabilitating birds of prey and providing live exhibits
Event spaces like Birch Manor and Camp Greene, available for rentals
These features make Glen Helen not just a nature preserve, but a destination for families, educators, students, and visitors of all ages.
Airing Wednesday, July 30, 20205 @ 8:30am EST
As a nonprofit, how does being a member of the YS Chamber help you achieve your goals?
Tackett shared that being a member of the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce helps Glen Helen connect with local businesses and civic partners who care about the health of the community. Through networking, shared visibility, and collaboration opportunities, the Chamber supports Glen Helen’s mission to educate, inspire, and protect. It also opens doors to sponsorships, trail partnerships, corporate retreats, and co-branded events that benefit both the preserve and local businesses.
Why did you decide to invest your time at Glen Helen?
“Glen Helen is a place where passion and purpose meet,” Tracey said. “I believe that nature is essential to community well-being and economic balance.”
By investing her time and energy into the preserve, she is helping secure its legacy for future generations while also fostering new connections between Glen Helen and the region’s thriving business community.
The Takeaway
With strong leadership, a clear mission, and a growing list of business and community collaborations, Glen Helen continues to be one of Yellow Springs’ greatest assets. Tackett encourages businesses of all sizes to explore how they can engage with the preserve, not just as a destination, but as a partner in making our community more vibrant, resilient, and connected.
Watch the full Chamber Insights interview to learn more about how Glen Helen and your business can grow together.
COMING UP AT GLEN HELEN
Glen Helen offers unique event spaces, from meeting venues to retreat settings, ideal for business gatherings. Companies can partner through educational programs, youth camps, or creative collaborations like art exhibits and sponsorships. It’s a powerful way to connect business with community and nature. glenhelen.org
