How to Get Involved - Adopt-A-Park Program

Ok, so you're driving past the parks of Orange County, walking on the beaches, or just watching the grass grow in your front yard, and then it hits you - you feel the need to get involved in the natural community! You're not sure when, where, or how... but you know that it would feel great to meet new people, discover the natural history of your surroundings, and help promote an increased awareness of OC's resources.

If you turn to the internet for guidance, I suggest visiting Adopt-A-Park, OC Parks' Volunteer Program, which serves over 30 OC Parks facilities in Orange County. Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Adopt-A-Park, taken directly from the Adopt-A-Park Volunteer Manual:

What does it mean to Adopt-A-Park?
As an Adopt-A-Park volunteer, you can assist with beautification of over 39,000 acres of spectacular resources. We want you to help in preserving and maintaining the natural beauty and allure of these distinct landscapes and facilities, striving to maximize the outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike.

What can I do as an Adopt-A-Park Volunteer?
There are many ways you can be a part of our Adopt-A-Park Volunteer Team. From being a trail monitor, to creating a new trail; Planting gardens to maintaining present ones; Staffing an interpretive center to leading nature walks for visitors, the possibilities are endless.

There are many perks in being an Adopt-A-Park Volunteer - besides the obvious joy in working in/for nature with other like-minded individuals, you often get free access to the parks (no parking fees), expense reimbursement, formal and informal recognition - and the Adopt-A-Park program carries Volunteer insurance.

If you are looking to make a difference in your community, to add more joy into your life, and to connect with nature in Orange County, this is an excellent way to go!

(All information has been taken from the Adopt-A-Park Volunteer Manual; the author of this post is, as of the posting date of 1 Oct 2008, not affiliated with Adopt-A-Park in any way. Please contact Adopt-A-Park directly for more information on their program. Thanks!)