Volunteer

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Volunteers-In-Parks (VIPs)

Volunteers assist the National Park Service with many vital duties that further the mission of preservation and education. As a VIP, you will gain training and knowledge about the Richmond National Battlefield Park. Long-term VIPs may become eligible for uniforms, badges, t-shirts, and other memorabilia. Volunteers that surpass 250 hours become eligible for a free America the Beautiful pass.

 

Types of VIP Opportunities

Resource Management VIPs: Volunteers will assist our Resource Management department in a variety of projects such as invasive plant species management, debris clean up, earthworks preservation, and trail repair. Volunteer sessions are held regularly every Thursday from 9am to 11am, the location and projects vary.

Interpretation VIPs: Volunteers will work with Rangers and with the public as Visitor’s Center representatives. These VIPs will answer questions about the park, sell gift shop merchandise, answer phone calls, and complete other day to day Visitors Center operations.

 

Who can become a VIP?

Adults: All skill levels and backgrounds in both volunteer departments are welcome. We ask that Visitors Center volunteers be able to commit a full day (8:45-4:30), while Resource Management sessions are typically 2 hours. Due to the nature of Resource Management projects, most are off-trail and on uneven terrain meaning we are unfortunately unable to accommodate accessibility needs.

Youth: Everyone under 18 must have written permission from a parent or guardian provided prior to the volunteer event or brought to the volunteer event. Not all projects are suitable for children, please review project details to determine if a project is suitable for your child. Eagle Scout projects are also welcome, please contact us to further discuss possibilities.

Groups: We welcome clubs, organizations, and businesses to volunteer with us! Please contact us and provide the group size and desired time commitment to allow us to match you with an appropriate project.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I get educational or community service credit for volunteering? In most cases, yes. We are happy to provide whatever proof of participation is required.
Can international visitors volunteer? International volunteers are welcome! Special regulations do apply, however. Long-term international volunteers may need to be in possession of a J-1 visa, depending on the project.
What if I get injured while working as a volunteer? When you begin working as a volunteer, you will sign up either as an individual volunteer or as part of an organized group of volunteers. When your term of service begins, you will receive training in how to perform your assigned duties safely. Safety is always our highest priority. If you are nevertheless injured "on the job," notify your supervisor or project leader immediately, who will help you to arrange prompt medical care. For purposes of liability or injury only, volunteers working within their position descriptions are fully covered by the Federal Government through the Workers Compensation program, just as if they were paid employees.

Ready to sign up?

Contact us! Our current opportunities are listed on our HandsOnRVA page: HandsOn Greater Richmond | Partner | Richmond National Battlefield Park (handsonrva.org)

Kristen Allen (Resource Management) [e-mail]

Phil Officer (Interpretation) [e-mail]