Washington's National Park Fund Programs
For the parks, WNPF raises funds focused on the following:
- Maintaining our focus on Science and Research of flora and fauna by educating the public about current projects and inviting individuals to volunteer
- Improving Visitors' Experiences by enhancing trails, providing warming/safety huts, supporting the parks’ Search and Rescue programs, and improving campgrounds (to name a few)
- Growing each park’s Volunteerism and Stewardship by strengthening the parks’ ability to bring in more volunteers and effectively supervise/support them as they serve as “Meadow Rovers”, help with trail maintenance, plants seedlings in those precious places where visitors have trampled, or clean up campgrounds at the beginning of the season (to name a few)
- Strengthening Youth and Family Programs aimed at creating the next generation of Passionate Parks People. With support, we’re able to bring in more young people (and at times, their families) from all backgrounds up and into the National Parks, teaching them both to care for – and find enjoyment in – these national treasures
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Over the past five years, WNPF has given more than $1.4 million back to these three parks.
One of our outstanding success stories results from an estate gift Mount Rainier has received. Rainier receives $50,000/year for five years to fund their Volunteer Program, a program that is bringing in more nearly 2,000 volunteers each year. Monetary value: $1.6 million/year.
Currently, a particularly pressing need for these parks is increased funding for their Search and Rescue efforts. As staff limitations continue to increase, the parks rely more on the WONDERFUL SAR volunteers who give so much to help others. We are focusing a portion of our efforts on raising funds for gear, technology, safety training, and volunteer support.