Volunteering with Partners

National Capital Parks – East is supported by a variety of partners that contribute to the well-being of the parks, initiate volunteer events and opportunities, and promote stewardship. This page provides background information regarding our partners and highlights various volunteer opportunities.

 

The Accokeek Foundation

The Accokeek Foundation partners with the National Park Service to render services and programs that enhance the visitor experience at Piscataway Park. The foundation operates the National Colonial Farm and teaches visitors about the importance of the agricultural, natural, and cultural histories of the area. Volunteer opportunities include helping on the farm, gardening, bluebird monitoring, wool processing, and more.

 

The Alice Ferguson Foundation

The Alice Ferguson Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting people to the natural world, cultural heritage, and sustainable agricultural practices through advocacy, stewardship, and education. The foundation also spearheads the region’s annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup which supports several National Capital Parks – East and dozens of other sites every year.

 

Anacostia Watershed Society

The Anacostia Watershed Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring and protecting the Anacostia River by engagement with the public and partners through trash cleanups, education, and stewardship practices. They host volunteer opportunities within National Capital Parks – East every year including an impactful annual Earth Day cleanup series.

 

Friends of Anacostia Park

The Friends of Anacostia Corps supports Anacostia Park on weekends during the summer and fall months in a variety of ways including roving, hosting activities, and providing maintenance support. The organization also focuses on hosting events, such as late skates and community cleanups, that bring together community members.

 

Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

The Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a non-profit organization working with the National Park Service to ensure the gardens are well-maintained and welcoming to visitors. The group also builds community partnerships, fundraises, supports educational and interpretation programs, and enhances park infrastructure. Volunteer events occur monthly from spring to fall.

 

Friends of Lincoln Park

The Friends of Lincoln Park are a community group founded by members of the park’s surrounding neighborhood. The group is dedicated to the betterment of the park and bringing people together through periodic volunteer and community events.

 

Ward 8 Woods Conservancy

Ward 8 Woods Conservancy is a grassroots organization dedicated to raising awareness and making the woods in Ward 8 more inviting to the public by eradicating litter, debris, and invasive species from Shepherd Parkway, Fort Stanton Park, Suitland Parkway, and Oxon Run Parkway. The organization utilizes staff local to the ward and hosts monthly volunteer events.