Volunteer - Interpretive Program Presenter

Job Title:

Interpretive Guide

Job Description:

Throughout the year, the park offers a variety of interpretive programs to visitors, free of charge. In order to provide programs year-round, the NPS needs VIP Park Guides. VIP Park Guides will work alongside NPS staff to conduct talks, demonstrations, or hands-on activities. NPS staff will work with VIPs to determine program topics best suited for special events and the regular calendar. Park interpretive themes and training will be provided to inform the VIP of what information should be shared during each program. Opportunities are typically available seven days a week and take place both indoors and outdoors.

Skills Needed / Preferred:

• Willingness and ability to talk with visitors about the chosen subject
• Ability to lead visitors to stewardship through effective presentations
• Ability and flexibility to work in a variety of weather conditions

Training Provided:

NPS will provide orientation and interpretive training to assist VIPs in selecting appropriate themes, presentation techniques, and historical information that will be shared during each program.

Goals / Outcomes of Job:

Provide a fun and educational experience for visitors, helping them understand the significance of Fort Smith’s story, along with other park themes.

Benefits to Volunteers:

Ability to work with a variety of visitors; strengthen communication skills; thoroughly learn Fort Smith’s story. Official VIP uniform & period costuming provided.

Number of Volunteers Needed:

Numbers vary according to program.

Minimum Commitment:

VIP should work with VIP Coordinator to determine topic, type, length, and date of program.

Location of Position:

Visitor Center & Park Grounds

Supervisor:

Cody Faber

Contact:

Cody Faber, VIP Coordinator
479-783-3961
Email us

Firearms in the Park:

Under 43 C.F.R. § 20.511, Departmental volunteers in the course of their official duties are prohibited from possessing firearms on property under control of the Department. Because of the stated purpose of the sponsors of Section 512 to provide uniformity under applicable state law from bureau-to-bureau, the potential liability issues that could result, and the absence of any criminal penalties applicable to this regulation, this Departmental policy continues to apply to all NPS/FWS employees and volunteers during their official duties. Volunteers who are not on official duty may possess firearms on Departmental lands under the same conditions applicable to members of the general public, according to P.L. 111-24, Section 512. For this purpose, volunteers are considered the same as other employees when engaged in their official activities