Volunteering on the National Mall
Who can volunteer on the National Mall and how do you start? Read on to learn about some of the typical responsibilities and expectations for National Mall volunteers!
Who can volunteer on the National Mall?
As a part of the Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) Volunteer Corps, you will join a dynamic community comprised of individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and interests that share a passion for civic engagement and championing American public lands. VIPs act as an extension of the National Park Service rangers on "America's Front Yard." As the most visited National Park in the country, there are many sites on the National Mall where you can make a difference!
Those who are 18 years or older can volunteer if they meet the following requirements, and individuals 16 - 18 can volunteer with parental permission. Individuals younger than 16 can volunteer with supervision - or can join our Youth Ambassador Program!
National Mall volunteers must be able to:
Positively represent the Trust for the National Mall and the National Park Service.
Welcome all visitors - of any background, prior understanding, political or religious affiliation, etc.
Commit to at least 2 shifts per month. Across the National Mall, volunteer shifts range from 2 - 4 hours and are available any day of the week.
Commit to volunteering for at least 6 months.
Remain apolitical while on duty or in uniform.
Pass an annual background check.
On a normal shift, a National Mall volunteer will...
Welcome visitors from around the world, including school groups, veterans, and families.
Provide directions, recommendations, and basic information about the monument, memorial, or site where they are serving
Provide maps, give National Park Service passport stamps, and swear in Junior Rangers.
Share needs and information with Volunteer Program Staff or National Park Service Rangers.
Provide site-specific services, like taking rubbings of names at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial or sharing ticketing information at the Washington Monument.
How to Get Started
Explore volunteer opportunities on our opportunities page to get an idea of where you might be a good fit: https://volunteer.nationalmall.org/need/
Express your interest in volunteering https://www.nationalmall250.org/mallstar
Complete an introductory interview with National Mall Volunteers-in-Parks Program Staff.
Complete the self-paced online training and onboarding process, including: sign a Volunteer Service Agreement, pass a background check, complete introductory volunteer trainings.
Do a shadowing shift with another volunteer.
Receive your volunteer uniform and begin signing up for regular shifts as a National Mall Volunteer-in-Parks!
If you have questions please reach out to volunteer@nationalmall.org.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the volunteer time commitments?
Answer: Volunteers are expected to serve a minimum of 2 shifts per month for a minimum of 6 months. Shifts vary from 2 - 4 hours. If you can't meet this suggested minimum but are still interested in volunteering, reach out to us at volunteer@nationalmall.org to see if there may be other opportunities for you.
What resources are provided to volunteers to help them succeed?
Answer: Volunteers receive a volunteer uniform to be prepared, professional, and identifiable on site. Volunteers receive trainings that cover: volunteer expectations, park safety and emergency procedures, interacting with visitors best practices, and site-specific histories and information. Volunteers have access to radios during their shifts to stay informed on immediate updates in the park. Those who need to drive to get to their volunteer site may be eligible for a park parking pass.
Can I volunteer at multiple sites?
Answer: We recommend that volunteers start at one location, but as you are comfortable, you can add additional sites to your repertoire. Each site has its own training and will require an additional shadowing shift, but you are welcome to become qualified at as many sites as you are interested in.
I am only available certain days of the week. Can I still volunteer?
Answer: Yes, for most sites, volunteer shifts are flexible and you can create your own schedule that works for you. Some sites, like the Lockkeeper's House and US Park Police Horse Stables and Education Center are open a few days a week, but most open-air sites have volunteer shifts available Monday - Sunday, 8 AM - 8 PM.
Can I get school credit for volunteering?
