We are thrilled to introduce Fairmount Park Conservancy’s first-ever cohort of Natural Lands Volunteer Leaders! This inspiring group includes volunteers who want to go above and beyond to protect and restore nature in Philadelphia and make sure our natural areas are welcoming and accessible to all.

“We accepted 19 stellar volunteers into the program, with some familiar faces and some brand new ones,” said Lindsey Walker, Volunteer and Environment Program Manager.  “They all have various interests for becoming a Volunteer Leader, but they all share a love for Philly parks and an eagerness to steward our natural areas. We’ve only just started and I’m already inspired by this group.” 

Sirron Carrector is a 2021 Volunteer Leader and says, “I’d like to contribute to maintaining our city’s parks and green spaces. East and West Fairmount Park was a major part of my childhood. As an adult, I’d like to facilitate more outdoor activities for the youth and young adults. I am really interested in restoration and management of park spaces.”

The Natural Lands Volunteer Leaders program kicked off in early March and will provide training and support to the volunteer leaders, including over 20 hours of expert training on natural lands and volunteer management, the skills and resources to lead volunteer workdays, and support  to provide an additional 20-hours of volunteer service through the end of the year. 

Some of the workshops and field trips include restoration and management techniques, a field trip to the Trolley Trail, and how to lead a volunteer work day. 

To learn more about volunteering for Philly parks, please visit our Volunteer page. 

To support our work bringing Philadelphia’s parks to life, including our Natural Lands Volunteer Leaders Program, become a member today!