As part of the National Park Centennial, Cape Cod National Seashore Superintendent George Price has announced that the seashore will host a celebration for all of its current and former volunteers on Saturday, September 24 at 5 PM at Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham. The event will include light refreshments, recognition of volunteers, and remarks.
"During this Centennial year, it is important to acknowledge all of the hard work and dedication that our volunteers devote to Cape Cod National Seashore," said Superintendent Price. "Volunteers assist in nearly every aspect of park operations. They serve as friendly and informative ambassadors at visitor centers. They monitor and protect shorebirds and maintain trails. They share the wonder of seal haul outs with countless beach-goers, and they bring to life this park's history at lighthouses and other historic buildings."
Volunteer-In-Parks, or VIPs as they are appropriately called in the National Park Service, are the backbone of many park operations. In 2015 872 volunteers contributed over 31,000 hours of service to the national seashore. During the 2016 National Volunteer Week in April, volunteers contributed over $45,000 worth of effort to improve and spruce up seashore facilities in preparation for the Centennial.
The event is free, but reservations are required. Current and former national seashore volunteers should RSVP to Courtney Butler at Courtney_butler@nps.gov or 508-957-0733 no later than Friday, September 16.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service