Become a VIP!
Volunteers of all ages give of their time and expertise to help achieve the National Park Service mission. In fact, volunteers are vital to the success of the National Park Service!
The Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) program at Blue Ridge Parkway works to preserve the cultural heritage, history, and natural resources of the Parkway through the support of education, interpretation, and resource protection activities. The VIP program helps Parkway staff accomplish more than we could on our own. Volunteers are involved in virtually every aspect of park operations.
Project Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway completed it's third annual, Project Parkway, on April 23rd, 2022. Project Parkway is planning to return in April, 2023 at various locations along the parkway. This single-day, park-wide volunteer project will help complete much needed work at various locations across the park and is ideal for people interested in learning more about the park through hands-on service. Volunteers will work alongside staff and experienced NPS volunteers to prepare the Parkway's campgrounds and several picnic areas for the spring 2023 opening. More information, including volunteer locations and how to register, can be found here.
You Can Help!
The Blue Ridge Parkway is divided into four management districts along its 469 mile route through Virginia and North Carolina. Volunteers work regularly in all four districts:
- Ridge District (Milepost 0 - 106)
- Plateau District (Milepost 106 - 216)
- Highlands District (Milepost 216 - 331)
- Pisgah District (Milepost 331-469)
While volunteer needs vary from district to district, the following are examples of some of the types work volunteers can participate in on the Parkway. Contact the Parkway's VIP Coordinator for information about current volunteer opportunities.
- collect bloom report information
- record wildlife sightings
- assist with parking vehicles in high traffic areas
- assist with special events
- provide sewing/seamstress work to create period appropriate costuming
- lend expertise for pioneer gardening or quilting
- share talents such as traditional music or photography
- assist with trail maintenance and clearing
- greet visitors at visitor contact stations
- serve as campground hosts
- and more!
Group Projects
Group projects attract volunteers from throughout the country to participate in projects lasting anywhere from one day to several weeks. Volunteer groups at the Parkway include schools, corporations, civic organizations, and scout troops. Please contact the Parkway's VIP Coordinator well in advance to begin planning group projects.
