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MAKING AND STRENGTHENING CONNECTIONS
from NPF Annual Report
by aeschaller
ENCOURAGING VISITORS TO #RECREATERESPONSIBLY
As visitors flocked to parks to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors, NPS, NPF, and partners pivoted to #RecreateResponsibly messaging, detailing ways for park lovers to stay safe while visiting parks. With guidelines on how to pack for your trip, travel safely, and keep your distance when in the parks, #RecreateResponsibly messaging is a helpful reminder how small, simple steps can make a big impact on how we all can enjoy our national parks mindfully.
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Going The Distance
A growing necessity for virtual learning has emerged due to COVID-19. NPF worked alongside NPS to facilitate a program design workshop, engaging leading experts in evaluation, digital programming, community organizing, and other areas to advise on best practices for virtual programming. The workshop led to the creation of Open Out Doors for Kids Hybrid Learning, an extension of NPF’s Field Trip Grant program.
The Hybrid Learning program will introduce new distance learning techniques to connect students, teachers, and families to the local natural, cultural, and historical resources found in national parks.
Spotlighting Park Employees
To celebrate NPS’ birthday, NPF launched a new Find Your Park campaign – National Park Ambassadors! Highlighting the efforts of NPS employees and volunteers, this video series offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the life and work of those serving in our parks and allows users to submit their own notes of thanks. The initial launch of eight stories earned over 21 million impressions and over 56,000 users visited the page on FindYourPark.com.
Casting A Wider Net
NPF worked with NPS to provide funds to nearly 30 parks where kids will make fishing memories that will last a lifetime. This year, NPF and partners continued the growth of the Junior Ranger Angler program and in some parks, rangers were able to implement social distancing measures to keep everyone safe while they enjoyed the benefits of being outside in a national park.
At New River Gorge National River, family units were separated on the riverbank by several hundred yards while educational stations on nearby picnic tables allowed them to attend mini workshops on angling, including tying lines, which fish to keep, and how to handle fish.
