Volunteer

Volunteer cleanup at Fort Wadsworth

NPS PHOTO

The Volunteer-In-Parks ProgramJoin the community of volunteers nationwide who donate their time and talent to our national parks. Being part of Volunteer-in-Parks (VIP) is a fun and rewarding way to contribute to these wonderful places. A range of service opportunities are available for youth and adults of all backgrounds, interests, and abilities. Gateway needs your talents and interests.

The Artist-in-Residence program is dedicated to creating new ways for visitors to experience Gateway through the arts. Selected participants are registered volunteers who travel to the park and participate in the program at their own expense. Sandy Hook's 2026 Artist in Residence is Heather Heckel.

Great! How Do I Sign Up?

Current opportunities for Gateway are listed through Volunteers.gov. We have a range of opportunities; from helping at our visitor centers to helping protect an endangered species found on our beaches. Search for opportunities by typing in Gateway National Recreation Area. If you have a group that is interested in a cleanup please email us. Please specify which unit (Jamaica Bay, Sandy Hook, or Staten Island) you like to clean up.

 

Volunteers who work 250 hours can receive a pass entitling them to free entry to Federal lands for a year. That includes national parks and forests.

NPS Photo

Volunteering Has Its Benefits

What do volunteers get in return? First, they share the National Park Service's sense of pride in preserving America's treasures. Second, volunteers who earn 250 or more hours can receive a pass entitling them to free entry to all Federal lands for 12 months. It is honored nationwide at all National Park Service, Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclaimation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service areas where standard amenity fees are charged.