Forging The Path: Fifteen Years of Volunteer Support for Virginia's Parks

Recognizing the potential for strengthening volunteer park support organizations in Virginia, the Virginia Association for Parks (VAFP) was launched at a statewide park volunteer training conference held in Fredericksburg in November 1997. Since 1997, VAFP has grown to become the nonprofit umbrella organization for the respective citizen support groups (Friends Groups) and individual volunteers supporting the 35 state parks, 59 state natural areas, and the 22 national parks, monuments, and historic sites located across the Commonwealth. VAFP is unique in that we know of no other organization that is working towards the goal of a "seamless" park system from a user perspective. Our view is that a "park is a park" regardless of the funding source - national, state, regional, or local. In keeping with that view, VAFP is supportive of all parks within the Commonwealth. We advocate for park issues at local, state, and national levels. We also offer free technical advice and assistance to those who wish to form a new support organization(s). And, we conduct semi-annual conferences that include training sessions and networking opportunities for attendees to exchange ideas. "Forging The Path" chronicles the successful strategies for advocacy for parks. With the philosophy that parks are essential to the well- being of mankind and all creatures of planet earth. VAFP is a striking example of the great quote by Margaret Mead, "Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has."