National Park Service
The Upper Valley’s two national parks — Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site in Cornish and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock, Vermont — are actively recruiting volunteers to welcome visitors, hike the trails, act as a docent in a historic house or support special events. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the local community while connecting to a larger network of National Parks. A variety of positions are available, with time commitments ranging from several hours per week to just one weekend day all year.
Potential volunteers interested in becoming part of the national park team are invited to a welcome session to learn about the different positions, meet current volunteers and staff, ask questions, and enjoy a light brunch. Sessions at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP will be held on Thursday, April 26 and Saturday, April 28, both 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Forest Center. Saint-Gaudens NHS will have a session on Saturday, May 5, 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Saint-Gaudens Visitor Center.
Volunteer jobs provide an opportunity to experience the parks in new ways, learn new skills and work along-side park staff. No prior experience is required for these volunteer positions. The parks provide extensive training and support, uniform shirt and hat, and any materials, tools or equipment needed for the work.
Volunteers become part of a nation-wide team of VIPs — Volunteers-In-Parks, who do invaluable work across the 417 National Park sites — at least one in every state.
Volunteer Trail Ambassador Chuck Enger said, “The park has tremendous history and beauty. From spring to fall, the forests and fields undergo a wonderful transformation and it is rewarding to share it with visitors.”
“From greeting first-time visitors with a smile to facilitating art activities with children, from hiking the trails to helping folks with limited mobility experience our events, our volunteers are the keystone supporting the national parks of the Upper Valley,” says Chief of Interpretation Stephanie Kyriazis, “every year we looking forward to welcoming new VIPs, and catching up with returnees. They help our programs shine.”
If you plan to come to one of the volunteer welcome sessions, please RSVP by emailing, [email protected], or call (802) 457-3368 ext. 222. If you are interested in volunteering at the parks, but can’t attend any of the welcome sessions, please email Alex and she will be happy to discuss opportunities that fit your time and interests.
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