CUMBERLAND GAP NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK’S VOLUNTEER PROGRAM RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

CUMBERLAND GAP NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK’S VOLUNTEER PROGRAM RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION “You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.” – Winston Churchill
Perhaps no other words could better describe Cumberland Gap National Historical Park’s volunteer program, which was recognized during the 2005 National Take Pride in America Awards Ceremony held recently in Washington D.C. The park’s volunteer program, which has flourished under the direction of Superintendent Mark Woods, was noted for its dedicated genre of talented and creative individuals. Volunteers serve as campground hosts, provide information to park visitors, assist with ranger-guided activities, maintain 70 miles of trails, and continue to add new trails to link over 500 miles of recreational space.
According to Superintendent Woods, in 2004, 268 volunteers representing all walks of life and from throughout the country generously donated 14,974 hours of their personal time to the park. “Our volunteers work elbow to elbow with park staff; their commitment to making a difference is exemplary.”
Take Pride in America is a national partnership program established by the U.S. Department of the Interior that aims to engage, support and recognize volunteers who work to improve our public lands, including parks, forests, waterways, grasslands, wildlife refuges, cultural and historical sites, local playgrounds and other recreation areas. Those interested in volunteering at Cumberland Gap should call 606-248-2817.
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