Volunteers provide more than $7 million dollars worth of work to Virginia State Parks in 2024
Richmond, Virginia – Virginia State Parks are celebrating a remarkable year of volunteer service, with a total of 221,132 hours donated in 2024. Volunteers played a crucial role in maintaining the parks, enhancing visitor experiences, and organizing programs that enriched the natural and cultural history of Virginia’s outdoor spaces.
Volunteers Make a Lasting Impact
The efforts of volunteers across Virginia State Parks equate to over $7.4 million worth of work, based on the Independent Sector’s volunteer rate of $33.49 per hour, as calculated by the Do Good Institute at the University of Maryland.
Virginia State Parks Director Dr. Melissa Baker expressed gratitude for the dedication of volunteers, stating:
“Our volunteers provided countless visitors with exceptional recreation opportunities and meaningful experiences in our beautiful parks. Their efforts have showcased the very best of what Virginia State Parks has to offer—breathtaking landscapes, vibrant programs, and a welcoming environment for everyone who steps foot into our parks.”
The Numbers Behind the Service
Volunteers contributed in many different capacities, from serving as camp hosts to leading group projects and organizing special park events. The breakdown of volunteer hours in 2024 includes:
- 107,000 hours from individual and group volunteers
- 25,168 hours donated by AmeriCorps and Youth Conservation Corps
- 88,655 hours dedicated by camp hosts
These efforts provided the equivalent work of 110 full-time employees, reinforcing the importance of volunteers in keeping Virginia’s parks accessible, well-maintained, and welcoming to all visitors.
Scarlett Stevens, Community and Engagement Manager for Virginia State Parks, highlighted the critical role volunteers play in the park system:
“Volunteers are truly an extension of our parks. We are so grateful for all their hard work and dedication as they offer their expertise and enthusiasm for the natural environment and cultural history of Virginia State Parks to make these lands more accessible to our guests.”
Growth in Volunteer Participation
Compared to 2023, volunteer engagement has significantly increased. This growth can be attributed to:
- More events hosted by park staff
- Improved background check processes for volunteers
- New wage-based volunteer positions that did not exist in previous years
Stevens emphasized the positive impact of these additions, stating:
“We are glad to see that with the new positions, we are able to work with more volunteers on projects and events. I can’t thank our volunteers and staff enough for an amazing year. I look forward to another productive year.”
How to Get Involved
For those interested in becoming a volunteer at Virginia State Parks, there are numerous opportunities available for individuals and groups. Volunteers can help maintain trails, lead educational programs, assist with conservation efforts, and support community events.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit the official Virginia State Parks Volunteer Page at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/volunteers.
With continued community support and dedicated volunteers, Virginia State Parks are looking forward to another year of conservation, education, and exceptional visitor experiences in 2025.
