Making Volunteering a Tradition - Burt & Jeff

Jeff (left), Burt (right)

NPS

Burt has been a volunteer with the National Park Service for a couple decades. He is passionate and a hard worker. Jeff was inspired by Burt, who is his father, to begin volunteering as well. We invited them to share their perspectives on the park:

What is your volunteer story? (Why, when, how)
Jeff: I have been a volunteer at several organizations for the past 20 years. I was the technical director and head set builder for Century High School for over 10 years. For my service I was able to have my employer IBM donate $1,000 per year to the Drama Club. I also worked with Episcopal Appalachian Ministries at Grace House on the Mountain in Appalachia in southwestern Virginia. We build or repair homes for the poor of Appalachia. Since I have retired I was looking for a great place to continue volunteering and I found a great place that matches my skills.
Burt: Volunteered for Habit for Humanity for 4 years. Also, involved in several projects for the Episcopal Appalachian Ministries at Grace House on the Mountain in Appalachia in southwestern Virginia. Many of the people in these mining areas suffered from "Black Lung Disease" or mine accidents. We build or repair homes for the poor of Appalachia. 22 years with the National Park Service with Fort McHenry NM & HS and Hampton NHS.

What made you originally start volunteering at the site?
Jeff: My father Burt Meyer was a volunteer for the NPS for 22 years. I always wanted to volunteer with him as I did with several organizations. I started at Hampton house one day and about a year later when I retired I came to Ft. McHenry and have been there since.
Burt: I wanted to explore new volunteer areas and a friend suggested joining him at the Hampton Mansion.

What keeps you volunteering at the site?
Jeff: I enjoy working on the projects that are presented to me. Most match my skills and are challenging. I really enjoy the staff at the Fort and the camaraderie. I have made several friends there as well.
Burt: The type of maintenance work and the friendliness of the Park Service folks.

What does the NPS mission mean to you?
Jeff: The NPS mission statement means that all of the work that we do enhances and preserves the site for the enjoyment and education of future generations.
Burt: Preserving and maintaining part of the National Park System which otherwise would fall in despair.

What connects you to the site story?
Jeff: The Fort was built in the 1700s. It has seen several wars and gone through many changes. Preserving the area and the Fort to preserve its natural historic relevance is very important to me and I am glad to be a part of it.

Is the story of Fort McHenry one that you see yourself in?
Jeff: I see myself helping to maintain and preserve its heritage and historical beauty through my efforts in preservation.
Burt: I feel I helped preserved a piece of history.

Why should people volunteer for the sites?
Jeff: Volunteering is rewarding and fulfilling for the volunteer as well as for the site. I encourage everyone to do what they can if they have the time.
Burt: To help preserve a piece of history so that newcomers to the parks can enjoy and appreciate them.

What has been your most enjoyable experience volunteering for the NPS?
Jeff: I have had many enjoyable activities at the Fort and at Hampton House. My favorite so far has been the woodworking projects. The last one I did was to produce recycle bin lids made out of wood. I got to use my skills and learn a few more as well.
Burt: The projects and the comradery of the of the Park Service folks.

What is one project that you would like to work on at the site?
Jeff: I would like to work on the deck replacement at the fork. This looks like it will be a major rebuilding effort.
Burt: Working on the Water Battery.

Any fun facts about you & your volunteering?
Jeff: Getting a key to the front gate was the day that I knew that I was where I want to be. I am glad and proud to be a volunteer with the NPA!
Burt: Having lunch with the folks at the Park Service and being educated as to the many stories of Fort McHenry and Hampton.