My Valley Forge Story: Beth Dhunjisha

Ranger Beth and Benny Bison!

NPS/ Beth Dhunjisha

Since high school I knew I wanted to work in a National Park but always had dreams of some big western park with mountains. Valley Forge, or even Pennsylvania, wasn't on my radar. But life has a funny way of taking twists and turns and here I am, a Park Ranger at Valley Forge NHP.

Beth's child climbing on the tiny houses.

NPS/ Beth Dhunjisha

This was the first park I visited after we moved to Pennsylvania. Later I brought my kids here when they were little to play among the "tiny houses" (AKA soldier huts). When they were a bit older, I started out as a volunteer in the park and was fortunate to be quickly hired as paid staff. My family has also been "hired" as volunteers for different events and even dressed up and played a art in the park film. Occasionally when I walk into the theater, I see them up on the screen and it makes me proud.

Beth's kids playing in the snow at Valley Forge.

NPS/ Beth Dhunjisha

Not only did they get to do this really cool thing, but this park has helped instill in them the drive to volunteer and the love of National Parks. As far as my job- I love it and I love the people I work with. They truly are part of my adopted family. We celebrate birthdays and marriages and find comfort in each other when the not so happy happens. Valley Forge has truly become home, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and lessons it has brought to me and my family.