The National Park Service Volunteers-In-Parks Program (VIP) was authorized and enacted in 1970. The primary purpose of the VIP program is to provide a vehicle through which the National Park Service can accept voluntary help and services from the public. The major objective of the program is to use this voluntary help in such a way that is mutually beneficial to the National Park Service and the volunteer.

Our volunteers are, without a doubt, Very Important People! In Fiscal Year 2002, 125,000 volunteers donated 4.5 million hours to national parks. Volunteers come from all over to help preserve and protect America's natural and cultural heritage for the enjoyment of this and future generations. Young and old alike give of their time and expertise to assist in achieving the National Park Service mission.

Volunteer opportunities at Fort Sumter National Monument are very diverse and attract all types of people. Volunteer experiences can be developed in many areas depending upon individual interest. Volunteers are accepted from the public without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability. Please note that volunteers are not considered to be federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefit. However, volunteer service is creditable work experience.

For more information:

• Volunteer application (pdf)
• We are commited to:
• What You Can Expect
• What We Expect