2023 Excellence in Volunteerism Awards

The Excellence in Volunteerism Awards are given annually to National Park Service volunteers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their park and community. These recipients embody the values of service, engagement, and stewardship fundamental to our national parks.

Recipients by Category

• Innovation Award

• Impact Award: Youth and Young Adult | Adult | Team

• Volunteer Management Staff Award

Innovation Award

This award recognizes a volunteer initiative within a park or program that has demonstrated significant innovation or creativity in meeting a park/program goal or need through volunteerism.

Duration:

1 minute, 48 seconds

Members of Sadhana receive the 2023 Excellence in Volunteerism Innovation Award.

National Recipient

Sadhana

Gateway National Recreation Area | Region 1 - Northeast

A distinctive challenge within the Jamaica Bay Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area pertains to the management of the impact caused by Puja rituals conducted by our local Hindu communities within the park. During these rituals, items such as flowers, coconuts, fruits, murthis (idols), saris, bamboo sticks, diyas (lamps), and other religious articles are offered along the tide line of the bay. While these offerings carry symbolic significance and positive intentions, they pose a concern as the tides disperse them along the Jamaica Bay shoreline. While some perceive these items as pollution and the practice as littering, easily attributed to a specific local community, addressing this issue is complex.

Challenges including First Amendment rights, cultural and linguistic barriers, cultural clashes, strained local community relations, and the enforcement of park regulations in areas with a history of disproportionate policing compound the complexity of this matter. For the past decade, Sadhana, a volunteer coalition comprising local Hindu community members, has endeavored to educate and integrate Leave No Trace principles into the worship practices of local Hindu communities.

Through collaborative efforts, Project Prithvi was initiated, enabling the National Park Service to support and reinforce Sadhana's message in a culturally sensitive manner. This approach allows the park to engage with, rather than strictly enforce rules upon, a local community deeply connected to Jamaica Bay. Significant progress has been made over the past decade in promoting more environmentally sustainable worship practices among Hindu communities in Queens and Brooklyn. Sadhana volunteers serve as invaluable intermediaries between the National Park Service and the local Hindu community, and their contributions are indispensable to this endeavor.

Regional Recipients

Meredith Matczak stands next to a Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park wayside sign.

Meredith Matczak

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park
Region 1 - National Capital

Meredith Matczak has been an active volunteer with the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park for several years, generously offering her time for various projects including graffiti removal, painting, and facilities assessments.

In 2023, Meredith embarked on a significant undertaking that provided invaluable support to the park. She spearheaded a comprehensive project to survey, GPS-map, photograph, and assess all 175 waysides within the park. Leading a team of nine volunteers, Meredith ensured thorough coverage of the entire park to document and evaluate the condition of each wayside.

Following the fieldwork, Meredith meticulously organized and annotated hundreds of new wayside photos, collated GPS data, and compiled a comprehensive spreadsheet linking to the park's existing waysides database. This task demanded considerable volunteer hours, both in the field and behind the computer, spanning several weeks of dedicated effort.

A smiling Teddy Abrams stands next to the Park Superintendent of Mammoth Cave.

Teddy Abrams

Mammoth Cave National Park
Region 1, 2, 4 - Southeast

As an Artist in Residence at Mammoth Cave National Park, Teddy Abrams crafted a distinctive park experience by amplifying the stories of underrepresented communities, igniting a renewed interest in the park and its intersection with the world of art.

Simultaneously serving as the music director of the Louisville Orchestra, Teddy dedicated nearly two years immersing himself in the rich tapestry of Mammoth Cave's history, culture, and natural surroundings to compose an original orchestral score titled MAMMOTH. Throughout this period, Teddy actively participated in every cave tour available and delved into historic documents to draw inspiration from Mammoth Cave's musical legacy.

Not only did Teddy compose MAMMOTH, but he also conducted its premiere on April 29, 2023, with two performances held underground in Mammoth Cave. Leading the Louisville Orchestra, Teddy orchestrated the participation of world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma as the featured soloist, alongside the Louisville Chamber Choir and operatic bass-baritone Davóne Tines. In addition to the cave performances, Teddy delivered a brief talk and shared musical excerpts from MAMMOTH at the park's outdoor amphitheater, offering an inclusive opportunity for the public to engage with his inspiration and music, especially for those unable to secure tickets to the event or access the performance space.

Members of the Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change team pose with the Director of the National Park Service.

Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
Region 3, 4, 5 - Midwest

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, functioning as a linear park with limited land ownership, relies heavily on collaborative efforts with local land managers and community partners for the ongoing preservation and stewardship of its invaluable resources. One notable outcome of this collaborative approach is the Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change research project.

The project focuses on studying various tree adaptation strategies to develop effective management techniques that promote the health of forest ecosystems amidst a changing climate. In its fourth growing season in 2023, this 20-year study comprises 24 test plots, hosting over 1,000 trees of 14 different species. These plots are strategically located within canopy gaps in floodplain forests at Crosby Farm Regional Park, a city park situated within the river corridor.

Operating akin to an ecosystem, the project relies on a network of volunteers who fulfill crucial roles that sustain and enhance its functionality. Phenology volunteers conduct weekly observations of plot trees throughout the growing season, meticulously documenting annual life cycle events such as bud break and flower emergence. In 2023 alone, volunteers contributed a staggering 16,247 phenology observations and dedicated 180 hours of service. Crosby Crew volunteers provide essential support for the ongoing maintenance of the research plots, ensuring consistency and accessibility. In 2023, a total of 108 unique volunteers collectively contributed 463 hours of service to this endeavor. Additionally, student researchers from the University of Minnesota actively collect and utilize data from the project, facilitating continuous research efforts. Their contribution amounted to 2,772 hours of service in 2023.The interconnected roles of these volunteers are indispensable to the viability of the project. Without their dedicated participation, the project's ability to thrive and yield meaningful insights would be severely compromised.

Members of the Propane Can Recyclers stand by full crates of propane cans.

The Propane Can Recyclers

Rocky Mountain National Park
Region 6, 7, 8 - Intermountain

Rocky Mountain National Park has four front-country campgrounds featuring nearly 600 campsites, numerous picnic areas, and over 100 wilderness campsites. However, alongside the joys of recreation in these sites comes the challenge of managing the accumulation of propane canisters used in portable camp stoves. Often overlooked by visitors after enjoying a meal at their campsite, the disposal of these propane bottles poses a significant challenge for the park, as they cannot be discarded in regular landfills or recycling facilities.

Enter the Propane Can Recycling volunteer team. Through innovative thinking, the park acquired a Propane Can Recycling machine, also known as a Propane Bottle Recycler. As one of the most frequented parks in the National Park Service, Rocky Mountain National Park maintains a robust trash and recycling program. To manage this initiative effectively, the park enlisted a dedicated team of volunteers to oversee the operation of the recycling machine, freeing up custodial employees for other essential tasks.

With the assistance of volunteers, the machine efficiently extracts any remaining propane from the canisters and crushes them for easier and safer transport. Notably, the extracted propane powers the machine itself, contributing to a more environmentally friendly operation. Throughout the summer season, these dedicated volunteers gather to operate the machine, sometimes processing hundreds of cans in a single day. This volunteer team exemplifies an innovative solution to the challenge of safer canister disposal, ultimately saving both time and money for the park. Through their selfless donation of time and skills, these volunteers have transformed a challenge into a remarkable success story.

A Golden Gate Raptor Observatory volunteer handles a small bird of prey in front of a large group of visitors.

The Golden Gate Raptor Observatory

Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Region 8, 9, 10, 12 - Pacific West

In 2024, the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, a Citizen Science Program of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, celebrates four decades of raptor monitoring. Since 1984, it has stood as the largest volunteer program at the site, engaging over 2000 volunteers. Each volunteer contributes 80 to 100 hours annually to vital biological fieldwork, playing a pivotal role in conducting daily counts and staffing banding stations to trap and tag raptors. This program provides invaluable support to the park's wildlife biologist and the wider scientific community, showcasing the innovative use of volunteers as community scientists to generate an impressive data set.

Distinguished as the sole National Park Service scientific study monitoring migrating raptors through counting, banding, radio, and satellite-tracking methods, this initiative leverages the expertise of a dedicated volunteer workforce to bolster its extensive biological data collection. In 2023 alone, 150 volunteers dedicated over 12,000 hours of service, yielding 19,085 bird sightings, banding 861 raptors, educating 350 young individuals on migratory stories, and engaging with over 9,300 visitors at Hawk Hill throughout the migration season, with operations running seven days a week.

Staff members have consistently demonstrated adaptability in seizing opportunities, navigating changes, and overcoming challenges. This flexibility is evident in their innovative approaches to training, mentoring, and evaluation. Examples include adapting field techniques in response to Avian Influenza and technological advancements. Amidst the pandemic, staff swiftly transitioned trainings online and formed small-team volunteer pods, ensuring the continuation of daily banding and counting studies in the field while mitigating risks effectively.

A Sled Dog Walker volunteer holds a puppy in the Denali Kennels.

Sled Dog Walkers

Denali National Park
Region 11 - Alaska

Sled dogs have been an integral part of the Denali landscape for centuries, with their significance to park operations dating back to 1922 when Superintendent Harry Karstens procured the first team of seven dogs from a local homesteader on Hadley Island. Karstens brought the dogs to the park and established dog houses that eventually evolved into the Kennels.

The Denali National Park and Preserve Volunteer Sled Dog Walkers undertake a seemingly straightforward yet crucial task for the park's Kennels operation: walking dogs. While this task may appear simple, its underlying science and benefits are multifaceted; dog walking not only benefits the volunteers, the park, and the community but also enhances the experience for park visitors and, most importantly, ensures the well-being of the dogs.

Initiated in 1987, the Volunteer Sled Dog Walker program remains innovative by addressing a complex challenge: how to keep 30 active sled dogs exercised and engaged during the bustling summer season while also fostering community engagement, including visiting seasonal workers, often on J-1 visas. The solution? Recruiting park staff, local residents, and seasonal workers as volunteer dog walkers, thereby providing a simple yet effective means of addressing this multifaceted challenge.

Impact Award: Youth and
Young Adult Category

This award recognizes a single individual age 30 or under (non-Veteran), 35 or under (for Veterans), who has made a meaningful impact for their park or program. Over 27,000 volunteers under the age of 25 volunteered in National Park sites in 2023.

Duration:

1 minute, 9 seconds

Sara Soroka accepts the 2023 Excellence in Volunteerism Youth and Young Adult Impact Award.

National Recipient

Sara Soroka

Yosemite National Park
Region 8, 9, 10, 12 - Pacific West

As a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity Volunteer Intern, Sara Soroka has consistently demonstrated exemplary dedication and skill, warranting recognition for her invaluable contributions. She approaches challenges with determination and thoughtfulness, consistently delivering quality results. Sara's involvement has significantly enhanced the structure and expansion of Yosemite National Park Employee Resource Groups, offering employees more robust opportunities for engagement and involvement.

Amidst the renewal of her position, Sara's role transitioned to the Safety Division to support the park's Wellness Program, focusing on components of Psychological Safety. Despite the complexity of this transition, Sara embraced the change and played a pivotal role in highlighting the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the context of Psychological Safety, leaving a lasting impact on the agency and its workforce.

Sara's volunteerism goes well beyond what's listed here. She was crucial in events, from small mixers to large gatherings like Yosemite Pride and United in Yosemite. She tackles communication issues by participating in workgroup discussions and leads a monthly newsletter promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion topics and events, reaching all Yosemite employees and partners.

Regional Recipients

Timothy Stull stands by the Prince William Forest Park camp sign.

Timothy Stull

Prince William Forest Park
Region 1 - National Capital

Timothy Stull joined Prince William Forest Park as a cabin camp host in the spring of 2023. As a resident camp host, he facilitates positive visitor experiences for campers, identifies maintenance issues, and ensures the protection of our valuable historic structures. Tim has embraced this role with energy and dedication, helping us fulfill our mission.

This is not Tim’s first time serving his country; he is a retired United State Marine Corps veteran. Tim has enhanced his capabilities by obtaining training in vehicle operation, chainsaws, wildland fire, and First Aid. His long-term commitment has been instrumental in reducing the frequent turnover of volunteer positions. Tim has undertaken projects to clean and organize areas of the cabin camps that had been neglected for years.

Tim’s impact extends throughout the park. He assists in training new camp hosts and supports cabin camp staff in various tasks. His unique skills and background have been invaluable, helping to restore equipment that had been unused for years, saving the park the cost of new purchases and repairs. Tim’s presence is a tremendous asset to Prince William Forest Park and the National Park Service.

Leanne Adamson completes trail work while wearing an AmeriCorps shirt. 

Leanne Adamson

Shenandoah National Park
Region 1 - Northeast

As both an intern and a volunteer, Leanne Adamson played a pivotal role in preparing over 11,000 documents of permanent records at Shenandoah National Park to be transferred to the Federal Record Center, aligning with the requirements outlined in the Office of Management and Budget Memorandum M-23-07, Update to Transition to Electronic Records.

By meticulously preparing these records for transfer, Leanne contributed to the preservation of Shenandoah National Park's administrative history, capturing vital decision-making processes, priorities, and activities for the benefit of future generations. Her dedication to this project, initially as an intern and later as a volunteer, not only saved the park significant expenses that would have been incurred in digitizing these records but also ensured their accessibility for posterity.

In addition to her work with permanent records, Leanne also processed 15 boxes of central file temporary records for disposal and collaborated with other park divisions to prepare another 150 boxes of temporary records for disposal. Her proactive approach included engaging in online training, liaising with park staff, participating in regional webinars, and collaborating with the regional records manager. Leanne's commitment to becoming well-versed in records management, coupled with her motivation and problem-solving skills, drove the success of this project. She adeptly navigated challenges by seeking guidance from her supervisor and directly consulting with the regional records manager, implementing feedback to ensure project continuity. Leanne's passion for the park and recognition of the value inherent in preserving its records underscored the success of this initiative, ensuring a lasting and invaluable outcome for Shenandoah National Park.

Lyla Wood scans a historic document into a large machine.

Lyla Wood

Mammoth Cave National Park
Region 1, 2, 4 - Southeast

Lyla Wood undertook the task of digitizing and preserving valuable historic documents, enhancing accessibility for park staff and visitors alike. Lyla meticulously scanned 4,260 pages from 828 distinct documents, covering various divisions within the park. These documents included drawings, projects, blueprints, and maps related to infrastructure, the cave system, and law enforcement.

Despite encountering challenges with an outdated scanner/plotter, Lyla devised a strategy and technique for safely scanning paper documents, considering their fragility and weight. She also meticulously tracked the time required for each scan. This process is now being shared with National Park Service curators planning similar projects with historic documents. Moreover, the equipment difficulties faced by Lyla prompted park management to prioritize the acquisition of a new scanner.

Spanning back to 1925, these documents primarily chronicle the transition of Mammoth Cave from a privately owned tourist attraction to a national park. The scanned documents were integrated into the Interior Collection Management System, ensuring their integrity and accessibility for future reference. This digitization effort promises to deepen our understanding of Mammoth Cave National Park and its rich history.

Daniel Boyer stands in front of a Junior Ranger activity table.

Daniel Boyer

Rocky Mountain National Park
Region 6, 7, 8 - Intermountain

Daniel Boyer has been serving in various volunteer capacities since 2019, holding the distinction of being Rocky Mountain National Park's longest-running young-adult volunteer and an invaluable member of our team. Daniel actively contributes to pop-up programs, officiates Junior Ranger swearing-in ceremonies, and warmly welcomes families to Junior Ranger Headquarters.

Annually, the park administers the Junior Ranger oath to thousands of enthusiastic participants. Drawing on his extensive volunteer experience, Daniel recognizes the significance of the Junior Ranger pledge. He emphasizes respect for plants and wildlife, eagerly sharing his knowledge with visitors and instilling in them a sense of excitement for nature exploration. At Junior Ranger Headquarters, Daniel's welcoming demeanor and infectious smile create a positive atmosphere for families. Through the swearing-in of new Junior Rangers, Daniel inspires the next generation of environmental stewards.

A cornerstone of the Volunteers-In-Parks program lies not only in the service rendered by volunteers but also in the profound impact it has on the volunteers themselves. As expressed by Daniel's family, his journey holds a special significance, serving as a source of purpose following high school. Introduced to the wonders of nature through the Junior Ranger Program, Daniel embarked on a transformative path, earning his Junior Ranger badge and actively participating in events to earn patches. His journey continued alongside his family, volunteering to clean up trash in the park for several years. Ranger Kurt played a pivotal role in guiding Daniel towards volunteering with the Junior Ranger team, an experience that has not only enriched his communication skills but also provided a meaningful outlet for his journey with Autism.

Impact Award: Adult Category

This award recognizes a single individual over age 30 (non-Veterans) or over age 35 (for Veterans) who has made a meaningful impact for their park or program.

Duration:

1 minute, 29 seconds

Grand Canyon National Park staff accept the 2023 Excellence in Volunteerism Adult Impact Award on behalf of Dean Ketelsen.

Dean Ketelsen stands behind a large telescope.

National Recipient

Dean Ketelsen (posthumous)

Grand Canyon National Park
Region 6, 7, 8 - Intermountain

In 1990, during his honeymoon at the Grand Canyon, Dean Ketelsen brought along a pair of binoculars and shared the wonders of the night sky with fellow visitors. Inspired by this experience, he, along with a few friends, initiated an event known as the Grand Canyon Star Party the following year. Over time, this event has evolved into the largest night sky festival within the National Park Service.

The magnitude of the Grand Canyon Star Party is unprecedented. For 8 consecutive nights each year, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association, of which Dean Ketelsen served as president for many years, mobilizes over 100 volunteer astronomers to the South Rim. In 2023, 107 volunteers diligently set up between 50 and 70 telescopes nightly. The event kicks off with special guest speakers, with five out of eight speakers representing one of the park's 11 traditionally affiliated tribes. Night after night, these volunteers captivate thousands of visitors beneath the expansive and pristine night skies of the Grand Canyon, generously dedicating their time, telescope equipment, and passion to the event. In 2023 alone, over 10,000 visitors attended the Grand Canyon Star Party.

The event's impact is remarkable, with an estimated 80,000 views through telescopes, 10,000 solar astronomy contacts, 1,700 attendees at constellation talks, 4,302 attendees at theater talks, and over 2,500 volunteer hours recorded in 2023. Sadly, Dean Ketelsen passed away in 2023, shortly after attending his 33rd consecutive year at the event. It is with great respect and gratitude that we posthumously honor his legacy, recognizing his pivotal role in creating one of the National Park Service's most extensive public outreach events.

Regional Recipients

Molly Herman, wearing a purple shirt, is shown with a smiling group of birdwatchers, including a park ranger.

Molly Herman

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Region 1 - National Capital

Molly Herman’s weekly bird walks have made a significant impact on the lives of rangers, visitors, and the community at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. It all began when Molly answered the call from the Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens for a volunteer birder to lead bird walks. Initially envisioned as a monthly event, Molly generously stepped up to lead a walk every week.

Starting her volunteer work in July 2022, Molly has now led over 70 bird walks. Rain or shine, visitors can count on Molly to be at the park on Tuesdays, ready to guide them on an engaging walk. Not even a flat tire could deter her from her commitment to the bird walks this year! Tuesday bird walks with Molly are now a mainstay and attraction at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, all thanks to her dedication.

She has welcomed over 40 visitors on hot summer morning bird walks and braved the frigid February snow with just two visitors. Through her efforts, she has cultivated a community of regular birders with varying levels of expertise, spreading the word that Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a prime birding destination. Her patient teaching approach has not only empowered park rangers to explore birding but has also enriched the knowledge of park visitors.

Jacki Wright speaks with two park visitors in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Jacki Wright
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Region 1 - Northeast

Jacki Wright proudly identifies herself (and rightfully so!) as a professional volunteer, generously dedicating her time to numerous organizations, with a standout contribution to the park being her work in maintaining the wildflower gardens.

The park's interpretive gardens were suffering from neglect and overgrowth, and Jacki's involvement changed that. Since her involvement, the gardens have been consistently well maintained and utilized. Visitors of all ages now enjoy strolling through the well-maintained paths, pausing to read identification signs, and engaging with Jacki herself.

Beyond gardening, Jacki seizes these interpretive moments to engage visitors in dialogue on topics like biodiversity, climate change, and the importance of planting native species. Park staff have also increased their utilization of the gardens, incorporating programming on pollinators, climate change, and other relevant topics, making them a year-round interpretive resource.

Aubrey Arrington demonstrates playing an instrument in front of a group of children.

Aubrey Arrington
Blue Ridge Parkway
Region 1, 2, 4 - Southeast

Aubrey Arrington epitomizes the spirit of volunteerism within the National Park Service, making a significant impact on the Blue Ridge Parkway for over a decade. His dedication extends across multiple park divisions, including Interpretation, Maintenance, and Natural Resources. Additionally, he serves as the Volunteer-In-Parks Lead for his team at the Blue Ridge Music Center, directly supporting the Parkway's volunteer office.

At the Blue Ridge Music Center, Aubrey's interpretive work delves into the rich music history of Southern Appalachian Culture. He illustrates how the fusion of Anglo-European settlers and enslaved Africans gave rise to Old-Time music. Aubrey's ingenuity shines as he crafts handmade instruments and even built his own dulcimer at a local Luthier shop. His dulcimer performances never fail to captivate visitors, fostering profound connections to the resource and often eliciting "AHA" moments.

Aubrey actively participates in the Parkway's Train-the-Trainer program, obtaining certification to train fellow volunteers on equipment maintenance, including string trimmers and leaf blowers. He also assumes responsibilities ranging from managing the recycling program to performing tasks like mowing, painting, litter cleanup, fence repairs, and trail clearing. Notably, Aubrey plays a pivotal role in training and coordinating volunteers involved in the Park's Wildlife Camera Project, a crucial initiative for wildlife resource management. Aubrey's contribution to this project extends to the placement and monitoring of trail cameras in over 30 locations around the park, aiding in the park's informed wildlife management decisions.

John Kolbe holds an award and smiles with two other Ice Age National Scenic Trail volunteers.

John Kolbe
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Region 3, 4, 5 - Midwest

Among the 1,990 active volunteers spread along the 1,200-mile expanse of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in 2023, many dedicate their efforts to local trail-building projects within their communities. Some volunteers step up to lead as "Volunteer Chapter Leaders," while a select few commit their time and skills statewide to address the trail's most complex advocacy issues. Occasionally, there are individuals who excel at all three levels, and John Kolbe exemplifies this level of dedication.

Drawing from his extensive private sector experience as President and Chief Executive Officer of "LAK Consulting," a firm specializing in talent assessment and coaching for corporations and non-profits nationwide, John seamlessly transitions into critical leadership roles at all levels of volunteering with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

Whether he's mobilizing support for National Park Service initiatives, utilizing his chainsaw expertise to address storm damage, advocating for the trail with state officials and community leaders, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility within his chapter, or serving as President of the Ice Age Trail Alliance's Board of Directors, John Kolbe consistently demonstrates exemplary stewardship of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. His outstanding contributions were further recognized when he was named the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s 2023 Trail Steward of the Year.

Tom Rottman stands with field gear in Joshua Tree National Park.

Tom Rottman
Joshua Tree National Park
Region 8, 9, 10, 12 - Pacific West

Since 2016, Tom Rottman has been an unwavering volunteer within Joshua Tree National Park's Science and Resource Stewardship Division, devoting himself to the park's vegetation and wildlife projects, including tortoise telemetry and rare plant monitoring. Even in 2023, when faced with limitations, Tom generously contributed 360 hours of service, showcasing his enduring dedication.

Tom's reliability and competence make him an invaluable team member, often taking the lead in field data collection efforts and assisting in training new recruits. His wealth of knowledge in desert ecosystems, honed through a career in the Forest Service, ensures the success of every field day he attends. His swift ascent into leadership roles on multiple projects underscores his exceptional contributions since joining as a volunteer.

Active in the Botany Program, Tom assists with herbarium curation and rare plant monitoring, while also leading the Joshua Tree Monitoring Program and Climate Change Collaborative. His commitment extends to the Tortoise Telemetry Project, where he diligently tracks several tortoises weekly, covering miles of terrain. Additionally, Tom supports various initiatives like native plant nursery management, restoration efforts, Invasive Plant Patrol, and floristic inventory, among others. Beyond his dedication to the park's mission, Tom's humble and caring demeanor leaves a lasting impression on both staff and fellow volunteers.

Impact Award: Team Category

This award recognizes multiple Volunteers-In-Parks (a group, couple, family, or collective of any age range) who have consistently volunteered and collaborated together, who may have worked on a variety of projects or may have had a more singular focus.

Duration:

1 minute, 11 seconds

The Friends of Mount Vernon Trail accept the 2023 Excellence in Volunteerism Team Impact Award.

National Recipient

The Friends of Mount Vernon Trail

George Washington Memorial Parkway
Region 1 - National Capital

In 2020, Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail partnered with the George Washington Memorial Parkway to address trail maintenance issues highlighted in the park's Mount Vernon Trail Corridor Study, aiming to enhance user safety and experience. Since October 2020, the team has organized 191 volunteer events, engaging 3,381 volunteers who collectively contributed 8,550 hours to trail improvement efforts. In 2023 alone, the all-volunteer group hosted 61 events, with 1,465 volunteers dedicating 3,551 hours, resulting in the completion of 864 trail enhancements, including the removal of 348 trail bumps.

Friends of Mount Vernon Trail focuses on three core pillars: trail maintenance, resource protection, and resource appreciation. Trail maintenance activities are geared toward ensuring a safe experience for the millions of annual Mount Vernon Trail users, encompassing tasks such as trail bump removal, pothole repair, bridge board replacement, pressure washing, trail edging, and vegetation trimming. In response to major storms, the team swiftly mobilizes volunteer teams to address storm damage and clear ice patches.

The team is also committed to safeguarding the park's future by combatting invasive vegetation like bush honeysuckle and kudzu. Additionally, the group promotes appreciation and access to natural resources through events such as Bat and Firefly Walks. Employing an entrepreneurial and adaptive approach, the group utilizes a kanban board to document, track, and organize trail maintenance issues, alongside fundraising efforts to invest in the park's future. Furthermore, the team employs two cargo bikes and trailers to transport equipment to remote trail locations, ensuring efficient operations.

Regional Recipients

The Fort Hancock Nike Site NY-56 Volunteers Association stands in front of a historic missile with park staff.

Fort Hancock Nike Site NY-56 Volunteers Association

Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook Unit
Region 1 - Northeast

Established in 2011, the Fort Hancock Nike Site NY-56 Volunteers Association operates as a non-profit organization led by Nike Veterans. These veterans, some of whom have been actively involved on site since 2003, share compelling stories from the American Cold War era—tales of challenge, failure, determination, and triumph. Dedicated to the restoration and upkeep of the former Nike site situated at Fort Hancock on Sandy Hook, New Jersey, operational from 1954 to 1974, the association endeavors not only to preserve existing structures, features, and artifacts but also to authentically recreate the site's Cold War-era appearance and operation.

The Nike Volunteers Association continually impresses staff with their unwavering commitment to various projects. These endeavors include the complete restoration of a Nike Ajax missile, establishment of a museum showcasing Cold War-era artifacts through donations, and the addition of electrical power to a park area lacking it. The restoration of the Nike Ajax missile, including the booster and handling rail, required over 900 hours of work by six dedicated Nike Association volunteers. Today, this missile stands proudly on public display in a recently constructed museum space courtesy of this group.

Innovatively utilizing available resources, such as repurposed jewelry cases for artifact display, the team has transformed donated historically significant items, including a brand-new Ajax missile fueling suit, Nike-era instruction manuals, jackets, and patches from the era, into captivating exhibits. Overcoming challenges, particularly the absence of electrical power, the group has devised creative solutions, relying solely on generators to maintain public access to the site and propel restoration efforts forward. In 2023 alone, the Nike Volunteers Association contributed over 1,800 volunteer hours toward restoration and tours, granting visitors access to this once top-secret military installation.

Judith and James Nechols smile as they stand by a table filled with educational materials.

Judith and James Nechols

Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve
Region 1, 2, 4 - Southeast

During their volunteer service at the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in 2023, Judi and Jim developed nine formal educational programs covering a range of topics, including Bird Beak Adaptations, Climate Change at National Parks, Raptors of the Preserve, and more. Drawing from their research expertise and field experience, this team meticulously crafted programs that adhered to the TORE (Thematic, Organized, Relevant, Enjoyable) framework, ensuring engaging and informative presentations.

Throughout the 2023 volunteer season, Judi and Jim diligently delivered these educational programs on a weekly basis, enabling them to reach thousands of visitors at the preserve. Their initiatives have significantly enriched local understanding of various subjects, including climate change, wildlife adaptations, and habitat conservation. By fostering community awareness on critical issues such as habitat loss and anthropogenic impacts, these programs contribute to the preservation of the area's ecosystems.

Judi and Jim's inclusive approach to engaging park visitors aligns with the National Park Service's principles of equity and inclusion, enhancing the experience for all visitors at the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Their dedication perpetuates the longstanding tradition of the National Park Service in educating the public about the diverse aspects of the parks they visit.

Volunteers in the Utah Cultural Site Stewardship Program are pictured with park staff in Dinosaur National Monument.

Utah Cultural Site Stewardship Program

Dinosaur National Monument
Region 6, 7, 8 - Intermountain

About 30% of Dinosaur National Monument has undergone archaeological resource surveys, leading to the documentation of over 1,000 archaeological sites. However, due to limited staff capacity, not all sites can be visited annually to address new or ongoing threats. Established in 2020 through Utah State Legislature Bill 163, the Utah Cultural Site Stewardship Program recruits and trains volunteer site stewards across private, public, and federal lands in Utah, managing stewardship activities and related data through the State Historic Preservation Office.

Since 2021, the team has partnered with Dinosaur National Monument, organizing volunteer site stewardship trainings, events, and engagement activities at National Park sites across Utah. Over the past three years, the program has recruited nine volunteers to monitor 11 high-traffic archaeological sites. These volunteers conduct annual site visits to document any new damages, such as vandalism or erosion.

Each year has witnessed a growing number of volunteers participating in stewarding these significant prehistoric and historic sites. This partnership has been instrumental in providing the park with crucial data, including repeat photography, allowing federal land managers to make informed decisions on safeguarding and preserving these sensitive sites.

A Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer surrounded by visitors points to a large body of water.

Channel Islands Naturalist Corps

Channel Islands National Park
Region 8, 9, 10, 12 - Pacific West

The Channel Islands Naturalist Corps demonstrated exceptional impact in 2023, both in terms of scale and quality. A total of 156 naturalists generously contributed 19,757 volunteer hours, roughly equivalent to the efforts of ten full-time employees. They engaged in interpretation and outreach activities across park islands, aboard whale watching vessels, and at community events.

Given the remote nature of the Channel Islands, providing detailed safety and logistical guidance to visitors is crucial for ensuring a fulfilling experience. The team met this need by delivering vital safety orientations and assisting visitors with planning their island activities. The majority of interpretive programs on the islands and park waters were led by this team. Experienced team members also played key roles in overnight island functions, managing campground operations, janitorial services, and basic maintenance, often autonomously.

In 2023, the team welcomed 40 new volunteers. To ensure comprehensive training for this large intake, seasoned volunteers served as formal mentors, leading smaller groups of newcomers through the rigorous training process. This process included 40 hours of classroom instruction, along with multiple whale watching and island shadowing trips for certification. Additionally, a select few volunteers revamped the 18-chapter, 352-page Channel Islands Naturalist Corps training manual and island hike interpretive outline for the new class. Furthermore, 15 team members completed interpretive training, offering innovative programming opportunities for visitors.

Excellence in Volunteer Management Staff Award

This award recognizes a National Park Service staff leader who has been strategic and/or innovative in managing a volunteer program.

Duration:

1 minute, 18 seconds

Nancy Bernard accepts the 2023 Excellence in Volunteer Management Staff Award.

A group of volunteers and park staff gather at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

National Recipient

Nancy Bernard

Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Region 8, 9, 10, 12 - Pacific West

The volunteer program at Lake Mead has set a standard of excellence that serves as a model for programs throughout the National Park Service. While the success of this program is the result of strong, well-coordinated team efforts, Program Manager Nancy Bernard has been the driving force behind these achievements. Nancy is widely recognized as a subject matter expert in all aspects of volunteer management, and her insights and guidance are frequently sought after by leaders across the country. She provides training at other sites and is specifically requested to serve on key teams, such as the Pacific West Regional Volunteer Leadership and Training Team and the Generating Organizational Advancement and Leadership Academy Selection Committee.

Passionate about program growth and improvement, Nancy spearheaded collaborations with Nevada State College to establish an internship program for their students. She cultivated partnerships with various community organizations, including 11 military, church, and Scouting groups, 14 high schools and universities, and 33 nonprofit and corporate businesses. Nancy's efforts led to a 15% increase in the volunteer team and a remarkable expansion of volunteer events by over 24%.

Nancy implemented enhancements to track and report program accomplishments, significantly boosting team morale by providing senior leaders with regular updates on the impactful work carried out by the volunteer team. This streamlined process also resulted in more accurate and comprehensive data for end-of-year reporting. Nancy's unwavering dedication to the volunteer program at Lake Mead has been instrumental in its outstanding performance and impeccable reputation.

Regional Recipients

Ana Chuquin in park uniform, stands behind a pile of removed invasive plant matter with a group of volunteers.

Ana Chuquin

Rock Creek Park
Region 1 - National Capital

Ana Chuquin epitomizes excellence as a volunteer supervisor, leaving a significant, enduring, and unmatched imprint on channeling volunteer enthusiasm and energy toward safeguarding the Rock Creek Park’s resources. Ana has expanded and enhanced an existing Weed Warrior volunteer program through innovative training methods, fostering a community of practice for continuous learning, enabling volunteers to adopt specific park areas, and empowering a team of skilled Weed Warrior leaders.

Ana has cultivated a cohesive community among volunteers, fostering deep-rooted connections within the program. Her establishment of trust and mutual respect with volunteers has enabled her to develop a unique management system, effectively leveraging their dedication to combat non-native invasive plants in the park. This includes the implementation of an inventive Weed Warrior training model, incorporating virtual sessions and in-person field training, expanding program participation while maintaining training efficacy.

Furthermore, Ana has established a framework for volunteers to adopt designated park areas. Experienced and highly trained weed warriors can ascend to the role of Weed Warrior Leader, guiding and instructing their community and neighbors in their adopted area. This approach has extended the reach of the Weed Warrior program, addressing the substantial need for invasive plant management across the park. The Weed Warrior program stands as one of the park’s most impactful and actively engaged volunteer initiatives, underscoring the profound impact of Ana’s dedication and investment in the program.

Khiet Luong in park uniform, stands to the far left with a large group of park staff.

Khiet Luong

Valley Forge National Historical Park
Region 1 - Northeast

If you've had the pleasure of meeting Khiet Luong, you likely walked away feeling inspired to strive for something better! Khiet is dedicated to maximizing volunteer engagement to provide a meaningful experience without compromising safety or stretching staff capacity thin. He epitomizes exceptional volunteer management and serves as a role model at Valley Forge National Historical Park and across the park service.

Khiet has a knack for seeking out great ideas from peers across regions and ingeniously integrating them. He generously shares his insights, extending his impact far beyond his immediate reach. Khiet’s visionary approach identifies opportunities for growth and positive change. He openly discusses the National Park Service's Eight Pillars of Wellness, emphasizing their relevance not just for staff but also for volunteers and the quality of the experiences they provide. Through volunteer surveys, Khiet seeks to understand how to enhance the volunteer experience, ensuring that the the National Park Service offers an experience that meets future expectations.

The impact of Khiet’s innovation is evident to volunteers and his peers in volunteer management. As a founding member of the Service-wide Volunteer-In-Parks Community of Practice, he envisioned a platform for learning and collaboration among volunteer supervisors and managers. Through his advocacy, the Community of Practice gained traction, hosting five service-wide sessions in 2023, attracting over 700 National Park Service staff from Acadia to Guam. Particularly noteworthy was the group’s value following the loss of the Common Learning Portal in May 2023. Khiet's approach reflects his belief that as volunteer programs flourish, collective success follows suit!

A group of volunteers wearing safety vests stand behind trash bags full of debris.

Thomas Avery

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Region 1, 2, 4 - Southeast

Under Thomas Avery's leadership, the Outer Banks volunteer program has flourished, experiencing remarkable growth from 24,000 to 36,000 donated hours, marking a 25% increase over the previous fiscal year. This expansion has significantly impacted the park's operations, enabling the undertaking of projects that would otherwise remain unaddressed, the interpretation of untold stories, and the enhancement of marine and bird species preservation and stewardship, while also bolstering community engagement.

Tom's adeptness in recruiting and retaining volunteers extends beyond traditional roles, encompassing maintenance, groundskeeping, livestock care, data entry, and other innovative positions. His skillful guidance has assisted supervisors in recognizing the value and added benefits derived from these unconventional roles.

Tom has wholeheartedly embraced the potential of partnerships, collaborating closely with passionate regional groups to translate their enthusiasm into impactful volunteer initiatives. These partnerships have led to the creation of new visitor opportunities, such as expanded climbing access at the Bodie Island Lighthouse, increased resource stewardship through beach litter cleanups, and enhanced visitor experiences, such as fishing tutorials provided by local fishing clubs. Tom's efforts have significantly advanced the park's objective of fostering stronger community connections. Moreover, in response to the unfortunate collapse of three beachfront homes, Tom swiftly organized coordinated cleanup events, effectively aiding the park in its disaster response efforts while addressing associated safety and environmental concerns.

Josh Bates in a park ranger uniform, stands in the middle of youth volunteers holding shovels.

Joshua Bates

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Region 3, 4, 5 - Midwest

Joshua Bates has demonstrated exceptional leadership, training, and mentorship within a large and intricate co-managed volunteer program, which serves thousands of volunteers amidst partner staff turnovers. His innovative approach, coupled with his adept organizational skills, has enabled the team to effectively manage extensive volunteer events. These events include large-scale restoration projects involving the planting of thousands of trees, invasive plant removal, and native seed collection drop-ins, as well as highly successful recruitment open houses, orientation sessions for new volunteers, and appreciation picnics. The growth of the park’s volunteer program and the success of these ambitious projects directly reflect Josh’s unwavering team mentality and his readiness to step in and bridge any gaps.

In addition to his leadership within the Volunteer Management Office, Josh has overseen a substantial and prosperous service-learning and youth volunteerism program, engaging thousands of youths. He has provided supervision and mentorship to seasonal employees and interns while fostering collaborations with other park divisions and numerous partners, including Akron Public Schools and The Nature Conservancy. Josh is also widely recognized as a leader in volunteer program management, as evidenced by his involvement in a national group of volunteer coordinators and his role on the Midwest Interpretation, Education, and Volunteerism Council.

His esteemed reputation as a leader in service learning has led to the incorporation of a service component into the park’s residential environmental education program. He has been invited by Akron Public Schools to co-create and pilot innovative service learning and volunteerism programming for middle school students. Under Josh’s guidance, not only has the volunteer program thrived, but its impact on the community has significantly expanded.