Volunteer

Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP)

Become a VIP and put yourself at the heart of the park experience. As a Volunteer at Pipestone National Monument you can make a difference in your life and lives of others as you help the national parks perpetuate their promise.

Visitors, neighbors, families, school groups, clubs, and businesses—people just like you—help care for the Monument's roads, trails, museum, library, and offices.

The following questions will introduce you to Pipestone's Volunteers-In-Parks program. Discover why our volunteers are truly VIPs.

What types of work can volunteers do?

Admin: Document Scanner

Do you like working behind the scenes and prefer not to have to work with the public? Do you enjoy simple tasks but still want to help out? We have a perfect job for you!

We have years-worth of documents in filing cabinets that we need scanned into digital form so we can relocate the hard copies and open up space in our Visitor Center.

We won't beat around the bush here - the position involves one task and one task only: standing at a copier and scanning papers. That's it! Our admin officer will show you how to scan to his email and then you're off to the races!

Yes, it's tedious, but it simply has to be done and we're struggling to get people on staff time to do it. Whatever you're able to give of your time, we're grateful for!

Park Ranger Interpretation (Volunteer)

"Interp" volunteers work with the public. They can help with just a few or all of the following activities based on their comfort levels and ability:

• Formal and informal visitor contact (tours, roving, etc.)
• Operating the park's Jr. Ranger program/swearing in new Jr. Rangers
• Greeting/assisting visitors at the information desk
• Collecting visitation data and operating AV equipment
• Environmental education programs
• Answering questions and explaining park rules
• Special projects that require research, reading, writing, and/or photography.

Natural Resource Technician (Volunteer)

Volunteers who want to work outside in nature can help out in Natural Resource Management. They can help with just a few or all of the following activities based on their comfort levels and ability:

• Bird monitoring
• Collecting data according to established protocols
• Using GPS/GIS in the course of this work
• Removing exotic species
• Collecting and/or cleaning prairie seeds
• Providing assistance to other staff

Maintenance Worker (Volunteer)

Maintenance volunteers help with the keeping the park and grounds maintained. They can help with just a few or all of the following activities based on their comfort levels and ability:

• Dusting, washing windows, cleaning mirrors, and replenishing bathroom supplies such as toilet paper and paper towels.
• Cleaning restrooms
• Walking the trail and parking lot areas to pick up litter and checking trash containers, removing and replacing as needed.
• Setting pumps in quarries
• Preparing and painting surfaces
• Washing and cleaning of park vehicles

How long do volunteers work?

This depends on the specific projects, the requirements of the supervisor, and your schedule. Most volunteers work with us for intermittent time periods (summer time, park events, etc.).

Where do volunteers live?

For out-of-town volunteers, the park does not currently have RV/camping space or housing. However, camping in a local, private campground is an option but may be restricted in duration due to limited funds.

What qualifications do volunteers need?

Requirements vary; let us know your volunteer interests and we can tell you what qualifications we seek for that position. All applications will receive consideration without regard to race, creed, national origin, sex, age, color, political affiliation, or physical handicap.

How do I apply?

Please request a copy of the Monument's Volunteer Application Form from the volunteer coordinator. On-line applications are not available at this time. Applications are reviewed and distributed to the appropriate supervisor. Supervisors, not the volunteer coordinator, will contact qualified applicants directly, considering their needs and upcoming projects.

What does the park provide?

When required by the job, the park supplies training, name tags, and polo shirts.

Who do I contact for more information?

To find out more about volunteering at Pipestone National Monument, contact the volunteer coordinator at [phone] Ext 213 or by e-mail.

For more information about volunteering in your National Parks, follow the link provided: National Volunteers-in-Parks Program