George and Helen Hartzog Award regional winners - KOAM TV 7

George and Helen Hartzog Award regional winners

NEWS RELEASE FROM THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

DIAMOND, MO – The staff of George Washington Carver National Monument is pleased to share the announcement that one of their volunteer groups and one of their individual volunteers have won a prestigious award from the Midwest Region of the National Park Service. The George and Helen Hartzog Award recognizes and honors the efforts of exceptional Volunteers In Parks, or VIPs. George B. Hartzog, Jr., Director of the National Park Service from 1964-1972, established the VIP program.

Students from Gateway School in Joplin won the 2014 Hartzog Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service, in the Youth Group category, Midwest Region. These teens provided 165 hours of service during the past year. Their work focused on landscaping around the visitor center, beautifying the visitor experience entrance area, and providing a positive first impression of the park.

Ashley Burns won the 2014 Hartzog Award for the Outstanding Volunteer Service in the Youth Individual category, Midwest Region. During the past year she conducted programs during special events, worked with Summer Junior Rangers, and worked on trail maintenance. Ashley’s work ensured visitors had a more enjoyable experience at the park.

These teenagers exemplify the spirit of volunteerism. The staff of George Washington Carver National Monument is proud to congratulate them on their well-deserved awards.

A Call to Action Strategic Plan charts a path toward the 2016 centennial of the National Park Service. One action concept, Step by Step, creates deep connects between a younger generation and the parks through diverse experiences including volunteerism.

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