The National Park Service Outer Banks Group recently honored its volunteers from Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial. Within these three parks, over 532 people donated 19,218 hours this past year.
One volunteer was recognized for his achievement of excellence. Steve Jones, a volunteer at Wright Brothers National Memorial, received the National Park Service Volunteer Master Ranger Corp recognition for his donation of 1,015 hours last year. "This tremendous number of donated hours equals almost 9 full-time paid staff members" stated Superintendent Mike Murray. "The support provided by our volunteers truly keeps us going. We are proud to recognize them during National Volunteer Week."
Volunteers support a myriad of visitor services and special projects. Volunteers working at the visitor centers, lighthouses, supporting programs, and out on the beach with resource management are the most visible to the public. Volunteers also work with the Ocracoke ponies, in park offices, tracking use permits, photographing special events, and providing support for maintenance projects.
Dare and Hyde county residents comprise a majority of the volunteer corps, which is supplemented by non-local volunteers, and interns. Some organizations, such as the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club and Cape Hatteras Bird Club, also volunteer their services providing special programming for park visitors.
The Outer Banks Group is always looking for more volunteers. If you would like to work in one of our visitor centers, with resource management, or if you have a special skill or talent, please contact Mary Doll, volunteer coordinator at 252-473-2111 x164.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
