Volunteer Spotlight: Ron Rodriguez

Ron is a beloved staple of Pullman NHP's new NPS Visitor Center

NPS Photo

With over 100 volunteer hours, Ron Rodriguez certainly has a passion for giving back to the community.

This Lawndale native has been participating in volunteer efforts around Pullman ever since Pullman National Historical Park's designation in 2015. With the opening of the new NPS Visitor Center this past summer, Ron has become a beloved fixture of the Carriageway front desk, assisting rangers with programs and greeting visitors as they explore Pullman National Historical Park's many destinations.

“Ron has been a tremendous asset to Pullman National Monument from day one,” say Ranger Grace Kruse, volunteer coordinator at Pullman National Historical Park. “His natural up-for-anything, can-do attitude makes Ron irreplaceable. Ron always has a solution. No task is too big or too small for him.”

Ron in his element: enjoying a bike ride

R. Rodriguez

The Pullman NHP volunteer experience has been deeply rewarding for Ron. “Its just been a great opportunity. I really enjoy it,” he says. “I love working with the rangers and young people. The energy is amazing.”

To those interested in volunteering, Ron would like to share a few words. “Try it! You get more out of it than you put into it. I always say this is the best job I ever had. I don’t get paid for it, but it’s the best job I ever had. Being almost 74 and being able to do all this is just great.”

When not in his NPS volunteer uniform, Ron can often be found wearing a helmet and cycling kit. An avid cyclist, Ron cherishes the intimacy of exploring Chicago’s neighborhoods and history on two wheels.

Interested in learning more about the volunteer experience? We want to hear from you! Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Grace Kruse ([e-mail]).