Volunteers-In-Parks Youth Edition
The Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) Youth Edition is a National Park Service program that allows high school students to contribute to park conservation, education, and visitor services through hands-on volunteer work. Participants can assist with trail maintenance, environmental research, public programs, and more—gaining real-world experience while helping preserve natural and cultural resources.
General Information
Volunteer in a national park local or close to you. Participate with various aspects in parks such as trail maintenance, educating visitors, housing campgrounds, and assisting with museum exhibits. Earn service hours from volunteering. Vast arrangement of activities to do.
Eligibility
Anyone can join by minors under the age of 18 must have a signed parental consent form. Youth under 18 need explicit approval, and roles must be age appropriate and safe. The commitment for volunteering is flexible so you can choose between volunteering by the hour, day, or long-term.
Application Process
Find the park closest to you by searching the website using this link. Then contact the volunteer coordinator about youth volunteer roles and guidelines for minors. Provide parental consent forms. Attend the required volunteer orientations and trainings to learn park protocols and safeties.