Winter 2025 Community Volunteer Ambassador Training

Community Volunteer Ambassadors (CVAs) gathered at Klondike Gold Rush – Seattle Unit National Historical Park for National Early Service Training March 17-21, 2025. Over three days, CVAs connected in person and participated in immersive training designed to prepare them for their roles in supporting their site’s Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) program and fostering strong community relationships.The training opened with CVAs presenting their Early Service Projects—an initiative designed to deepen their understanding of their site’s VIP program, partnerships, and engagement strategies. Building on this foundation, CVAs participated in sessions covering key aspects of volunteer program management, including:

• Understanding local policy and VIP program guidelines

• Best practices for onboarding and training volunteers

• Strategies for recruiting and recognizing volunteers

Sessions also focused on individual growth and leadership, with training on project management fundamentals and non-violent communication strategies for handling workplace challenges. Through networking training, CVAs developed best practices for building professional and personal connections, equipping them to foster meaningful relationships within their parks and communities.

"NEST was an incredible experience, one that will easily stay with me for the rest of my life. Building connections with those working on similar projects across the country gave me the resources and confidence to make this a successful term. By the end of the week, there was an entire cohort dedicated to supporting and encouraging each other—despite the distance between our sites." -Evan Schonekas, Cedar Creek and Bell Grove National Historical Park

In addition to sessions, CVAs met with Aisyah Aziz, a former CVA and current Park Guide at Klondike Gold Rush – Seattle Unit National Historical Park (NHP), to learn more about the park and her transition from the CVA program to a career with the National Park Service. CVAs explored the Klondike Gold Rush NHP Visitor Center and historic Pioneer Square, gaining insight into the region’s rich history and its connection to the park.

Special thanks to Klondike Gold Rush – Seattle Unit National Historical Park for hosting and supporting participants throughout the training. Appreciation also goes to the National Park Service Pacific West Region Office for co-facilitating sessions and to returning second-year CVAs for their valuable mentorship and leadership.

Congratulations to Winter CVAs for successfully completing National Early Service Training and for their dedication to strengthening our national parks!

Community Volunteer Ambassador Internship Opportunities

Recruitment for Fall 2025 positions will begin in May. Learn more about the Community Volunteer Ambassador program.