Creating Possibilities Through Partnerships

The national parks and the programs of the National Park Service were built on partnerships. Learn more about how to partner with us, how we support communities and how we receive support from communities.

We are excited to enter our second century with your support. Imagine the possibilities we can create through partnerships!  

Banner photo: NPS/Al Golub
 

vista with trees in foreground and mountains in the distance under blue skies
DO 21 & Reference Manual

Dig into Director’s Order #21, the NPS policy regarding Donations and Philanthropic Partnerships, and the accompanying Reference Manual.

Two fingers holding a redwood cone against backdrop of trees a sign forMuir Woods National Monument
In The Beginning

Parks and philanthropy have been intertwined since the early 1900s, even before the establishment of the National Park Service

Close-up of beach shells at Padre Island National Seashore
Donate

Learn about the ways you can join a group of passionate supporters of the National Park Service and National Park System.

A spawning cutthroat trout swims slow above river rocks.
Collaborating for Cutthroat Trout

An ongoing partnership with Yellowstone Forever is protecting the park’s iconic cutthroat trout—and, in turn, many other animals too.

Group of bicyclists on a paved trail leading from a stone bridge.
Thirst Quenching Partnerships

New water fountains on the George Washington Memorial Parkway were made possible by the support of partners.

Sign reads Your Donations at Work This project funded by Friends of the Smokies.
Teaming Up For Trails

With help from its nonprofit partner, Great Smoky Mountains National Park rehabilitated its popular Ramsey Cascades Trail.

Last updated: August 13, 2025

Tools