Volunteer in US national parks – a VIP experience
A review from volunteer and filmmaker Rebecca
I met some VIPs (Volunteers in Parks) today and, like with many volunteer opportunities, I realised how easy it is for anyone to step into an experience of a lifetime.
In 2005, around 137,000 volunteers donated 5.2 million hours to US national parks. Volunteers still play a key role in helping rangers protect nature, share history and welcome visitors.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
I met Liz at the historic lifesaving boathouse in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. She was helping visitors understand the past and present of life on the dunes. When the other visitors moved on, I asked why she chose to volunteer with the National Park Service and why she picked Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Liz told me that she is semi-retired and wanted a refreshing experience. Sleeping Bear Dunes gives her the chance to learn blacksmithing during her free hours. In exchange for a set number of hours per week providing interpretive services, she receives a free campsite, the chance to enrich visitors’ experiences and a memorable line on her resume.
Later we visited the historical blacksmith shop in Glen Arbor, where three volunteers were holding the attention of children, parents and seniors with glowing metal and enthusiastic explanations. It was one volunteer’s last day after 20 years of service, and it was moving to see his legacy in the well trained colleagues and the organised workshop.
The volunteer coordinator at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore happened to be there too. He explained that there are around 400 volunteer opportunities at Sleeping Bear Dunes alone. Positions are very diverse and many roles run for 2–3 months at a time. Andrew and I left feeling sure that we would return one day to lend a hand in this beautiful, history rich park.
Become a VIP – volunteer in parks
This kind of opportunity can fit many people. For example, it can work well if you are a college student with a free summer, someone taking a few months off between jobs, or a retiree looking for a new adventure.
Visit Volunteer.gov to explore the National Park Service’s Volunteers In Parks (VIP) program and other positions on US public lands. By giving time to your parks and their visitors, you also give yourself an unforgettable experience.
Before you apply
Volunteer roles, benefits and schedules vary by park and can change from year to year. Always read the full position description on Volunteer.gov or the park’s official website, and contact the park directly if you have questions about duties, hours, accommodation or campsite options.
via Be The Change With Rebecca
Contact details
Official information and applications:
National Park Service – Volunteers In Parks: nps.gov/subjects/volunteer
Facebook (National Park Service): facebook.com/nationalparkservice
More opportunities
Find more volunteering opportunities in the United States.