September is a Great Month to Volunteer

For families with kids, September is the month that re-focuses the family on school and after school programs, putting aside the summer fun and getting down to business. With family members heading in all different directions, it may be hard to carve out time to be together.

I have an idea. Why not make a commitment to volunteer as a family one day a month? Naturally, I would suggest that volunteering in a state park is your best choice, but I encourage you to find any organization to offer your time and talents to benefit a worthy cause. It is a worthwhile activity that the family can participate in together while enjoying nature.

Our state parks benefit greatly from volunteer support. We have volunteers that come out one day a year for a beach cleanup and volunteers who work a regular schedule in our visitor centers or contact stations. We have costumed interpreters who share their love of history with guests. We have historic gardens to tend and trails to maintain.

September just begs to be the start of a new commitment to volunteerism. President Obama's United We Serve "Summer of Service" that began June 22nd culminates on September 11th with a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Our parks will be holding special volunteer events on September 11 so it is a perfect opportunity to bring the family out and make a commitment of service.

September 26 is National Public Lands Day and another great opportunity to come out to a park and volunteer: volunteer in support of this country's precious natural resources and to provide the opportunity for outdoor recreation for everyone.

A commitment to a lifelong ethic of volunteer service is an important message to your children. In a society that often champions over consumption and greed, it is vital to teach our children the concept of giving back. A steady stream of studies continue to warn of permanent damage to children from a lack of connection with nature. Volunteering in a state park teaches a love for and appreciation of the natural world. Children raised with this awareness will be likely to carry that stewardship message on to their children.

To find volunteer opportunities and sign up for projects, visit our Volunteer web page. Or call the park nearest to you and ask about volunteer opportunities.


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