Includes ideas on ways to get involved locally and on the national level to contribute to the protection of the environment.
Looking to give back a little this year? Volunteering is a great way to support the great outdoors and feel good at the same time. There are many organizations dedicated to serving the environment or helping others discover the natural world. Below are just some ideas for volunteer opportunities and where to look.
Trail Building
Have a favorite hiking trail nearby for Saturday afternoon strolls through the woods? Chances are it is maintained by volunteers. Organizations such as the Appalachian Mountain Club dedicate themselves to maintaining existing trails and building new ones, as well as providing programs for its members to get outside and have fun. Smaller, local outdoor clubs may have adopted a trail or natural area in order to maintain it.
State and Local Parks
Parks are always in need of people to volunteer their time to support local areas. Volunteers can serve a variety of roles, such as performing trail maintenance, operating campground facilities as hosts, and leading visitors on guided tours and nature walks. For instance, Colorado’s State Parks webpage has links for those interested in volunteering their time for parks close to where they live.
Search and Rescue
In many states, search and rescue operations are conducted by volunteer organizations. These groups are always looking for new members who have experience hiking and camping in the backcountry, especially in local areas where visitors may get lost or injured. For instance, Summit County Rescue Group in Colorado is staffed by volunteers, and performs technical rescue missions for climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts who may get into trouble in the county.
Advocacy
Non-profits such as Leave No Trace, Inc. educate users on how to travel in the wilderness responsibly. They also perform a valuable service advocating for wild places in the media and with government. These groups need members who are not only willing to donate time, but also money to fund projects. There are groups at the national level, but there are also local groups that advocate for specific places.
Inspiring Others
Introducing others, especially young people, to the outdoors can be a rewarding experience. Taking one evening a week or devoting a week of vacation could make the difference in the life of a young person eager to get outside. Local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops need adult leaders for camp outs, troop meetings, and to help their youth members earn merit badges. The Big City Mountaineers, based in Denver, Colorado, take young people from urban areas on week-long backpacking trips in Colorado and California.
