Volunteerism
Those who can, do. Those who can do MORE, volunteer. Whenever and wherever you can do more, Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests have a role for you.
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Check out the Gallery of Volunteerism at Work – many of which projects are ongoing and never truly finished – underway and undertaken with a click to our Gallery.
Healthy Lands Week
In 2022, the first Healthy Lands Week from September 24 through October 2 will bring together Pennsylvanians of every interest and location to learn more about their public lands, participate in a stewardship project devoted to the public lands, or simply enjoy everything those public lands have to offer.
Volunteer
"Volunesia." That moment when you forget you're volunteering to help change lives because it's already changing yours. Find your bliss.
Annual Awards
The Foundation first recognized exemplary volunteers, staff, companies, or facets of government in 2007. COVID-19 disrupted the norm in this as in nearly everything else in our lives. In 2023, a live (and lively) banquet made its return.
Stewards of Penn's Woods
Our 20 state forests are big and the projects (and volunteer opportunities) are many. The Stewards of Penn's Woods offers a way for individuals, families, youth groups, senior organizations - anyone interested - to oversee important efforts in a special place.
Graffiti Busters
One of the first efforts through the Stewards of Penn's Woods was the eradication of a truly intimidating amount of graffiti at the geologically significant Hammonds Rocks in the Michaux State Forest. From these efforts was born the "Graffiti Busters," who specialize in fighting back against vandalism.
Corporate Volunteerism
Give back to your local communities while building memories that strengthen teams with a corporate volunteer day in a state park or forest.
Friends Groups
Since PPFF began tracking their activities in earnest in 2007, PPFF chapter volunteers have donated over 433,000 hours to their (and your) favorite places. You don't have to devote that much time (at least not right away) but there is room for your willing hands in a friends group.
Add Your Name to the Wall
Graffiti damages natural areas. Your donations to the Graffiti Busters purchases needed supplies and writes your name on a Wall of Honor.
Wall of HonorLearn More
Our Work
Volunteers are the lifeblood of any nonprofit. Whether you’re a trailbuilder, a wildlife expert, an event organizer, or one of those special people who always say, “Just put me to work wherever you need me,” Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests have a role for you.
Find your niche. Make your voice heard with decision makers. Pitch in with a friends group. Work on your own or with your family, friends, and co-workers as a Steward of Penn’s Woods. Support any of the programs and initiatives we promote. You will be welcome as a volunteer. And it’s as good for you as it is for your state parks and forests!
About Us
Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) began in 1999 as a statewide nonprofit organization to provide a voice for the Commonwealth’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest land. With PPFF, citizens can donate or bequeath money to state parks and forests, become active and involved volunteers in the park and forest system, and find some fun and educational opportunities. We’re the official nonprofit partner of your state parks and forests. Be a part of the movement!
Friends Groups
Your special affinity for a specific park or forest means that a PPFF chapter friends group is the perfect outlet for your creative energy. Friends are people like you who volunteer their time, services and support to our state parks and forests. Chapters form for a variety of reasons but all understand the value of their state park or forest and share a common goal to make that park or forest the best in the commonwealth.