Presidio Interpretation Volunteer

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Presidio Interpretation Volunteers will assist park staff in providing orientation, information, and interpretive experiences to visitors in the Presidio.

Responsibilities include:

• Staff the Presidio Visitor Center and the Presidio Officer Club, providing, accurate and helpful information to the public;
• Rove the Main Post, Tunnel Tops, and other Presidio trails to provide an "NPS presence" to the space, while also providing park visitors you come across with information on the cultural and natural history of the resource;
• Support Park Rangers in general site operations (staffing the desk, cleaning exhibits and displays, stocking publications, etc.);
• Conduct research of park resources and learn about 21 st Century interpretive skills and techniques (Audience Centered Experiences);
• Work with staff and subject matter experts to research, develop outlines for, and present formal interpretive programs to the public;
• Uncover stories of the cultural and natural history related to the park (Buffalo Soldiers, Spanish-Mexican era, Nisei servicemen, Ohlone people, etc.);
• Use interpretive techniques to help visitors find emotional and intellectual connections to park resources;
• Assist with special events and special projects;
• Record visitor contacts and program attendance numbers on a daily basis;
• Attend training's (in person/virtual) and speaker lectures to stay up to date on park resources and interpretive techniques;

Skills Needed / Preferred:

• Enjoy working with a diverse public
• Desire to sharpen communication skills while sharing information and providing good customer service Remain patient, calm and courteous during days of high visitation, especially in emergency situations
• Communicate effectively with the public and with park personnel (park rangers, park police, partner organizations)
• Knowledge of local area and resources
• Willingness to try and learn new things
• Bilingual (preferred)

Benefits to Volunteers:

• Receive training in NPS mission and policies
• Sharpen coordination skills in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
• Communicate with people of diverse cultures
• Personal enrichment and experience working with park staff in a national park setting
• Opportunity to get to know the park site intimately
• Accrual of knowledge and skills necessary to perform 21 st Century interpretive functions
• Join a community of volunteers who care for and share historic resources with the public

Start Date - 2024-03-01

End Date - 2025-02-28

Activities include: Botany;Conservation Education;General Assistance;Research/Librarian;Tour Guide/Interpretation;Visitor Information