Volunteer Spotlight: Tom Jacobs

Celebrating Tom Jacobs: A Decade of Service Volunteering at Ellwood

It’s not every day you come across someone who not only excels but inspires in their work. Tom Jacobs, the team leader of Ellwood’s Volunteer Grounds Force, is one of those exceptional individuals. With nearly ten years of dedication under his belt, Tom has played a key role in maintaining and improving Ellwood’s grounds as the Volunteer Site Lead, all while fostering a spirit of camaraderie.

Tom’s journey as a volunteer with NPS began nearly a decade ago when he started doing interpretation at Ellwood, along with general landscaping. When long-time volunteer grounds force team leader Dent Wilkins decided to step back, it was Tom who stepped up to guide the group forward. Under his leadership, the Ellwood volunteers have been taking on new projects and ensuring that the site's grounds remain in tip-top shape.

Tom’s leadership style values collaboration and feedback. “I believe in listening to others,” he says. For Tom, every team member’s input is crucial. At Ellwood, it’s not just about one person’s vision—it’s about creating something together.

This approach has helped keep his volunteer team motivated and focused, while also lightening the load off of park staff. Tom's quick to acknowledge that the hard work of his team is what gets the job done.

Under Tom’s leadership, the team has tackled several large-scale undertakings. One of the most notable recent efforts was a riprap project where Tom oversaw the placement of 12 tons of rock on one of Ellwood’s trails. It was a massive task, and Tom made sure every detail was handled with care.

Finally, Tom often notes that many members of the Ellwood Volunteer Ground Force are retired government workers or military veterans. He believes the best part of his volunteer work is the camaraderie it brings, providing a space where people with shared experiences can enjoy the sunshine, connect with one another, and share a few laughs along the way. Tom, thank you for all that you do. Here’s to another decade of success, teamwork, and preservation!