Experiencing Volunteerism in the National Parks
Know Your Impact
Experiencing Volunteerism in the National Parks
Our Story, Mission, and Approach
Our Story
Our Approach
Our Mission
Thomas, Andrea, and Edward are on a unique journey. As part of a sabbatical from the University of Central Florida and with support from the US National Park Service, Thomas (a Pegasus Professor at UCF) is researching the motivations and impacts of volunteers in national parks. His wife and son are sharing the journey for 15 months in their 20' Flagstaff E-Pro travel trailer.
Our Mission
Our Approach
Our Mission
Our family's mission from May 2024 through July 2025 is to tell the stories of national park volunteers as they give of their time and talent to enrich environmental, cultural, and historical national treasures in the United States. Our mission is also to tell the stories of how the parks, communities around the parks, and visitors to the parks are better thanks to the commitment of volunteers.
Our Approach
Our Approach
Our Approach
We will fulfill our mission by serving as volunteers in hub parks (Cumberland Gap in Kentucky, Prince William Forest in Virginia, Gulf Island Seashore in Florida, and the Home of FDR in New York), interviewing volunteers in each location and at other surrounding parks, and learning from park rangers about the work of volunteers. This is a research journey that is experiential and deeply embedded.
Learn About the Four National Parks that Will Be Our Home
Cumberland Gap National Historic Park
Cumberland Gap National Historic Park
Cumberland Gap National Historic Park
Cumberland Gap was the first great gateway to the west. Come follow the path of bisons, Native Americans, longhunters, and pioneers. Walk where 300,000 people crossed the Appalachians to settle America. Explore 85 miles of trails and 14,000 acres of wilderness. Stand in 3 states at once. Explore a cave, see Hensley Settlement, or camp under the stars.
Prince William Forest Park
Cumberland Gap National Historic Park
Cumberland Gap National Historic Park
Prince William Forest Park is an oasis, a respite of quiet and calm. In 1936, Chopawamsic Recreation Area opened its gates to house children's 'relief' camps during the Great Depression. Renamed Prince William Forest Park in 1948, these fragrant woods and trickling streams have welcomed generations of campers, hikers, bikers and nature lovers. Discover Northern Virginia's best kept secret!
Gulf Island National Seashore
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
Millions of visitors are drawn to the Gulf of Mexico for Gulf Islands National Seashore's emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Come explore with us today!
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
Home to the 32nd and longest-serving president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt returned to Hyde Park often, drawing on this place to renew his spirit during times of personal and political crisis. Explore the Roosevelt saga in the homes of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, the exhibits at the nation’s first Presidential Library, and over a thousand acres of gardens and trails.