Apply Now to Become a Friends of the Wissahickon Trail Ambassador or Crew Leader

to Keep Wissahickon Valley Park Clean & Green – Deadline 12/31

PHILADELPHIA – November 4, 2024 – Since its founding in 1924, Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) has only been able to continue its conservation mission for Wissahickon Valley Park in large part through the work of volunteers. Trail improvements, habitat restoration, fallen tree clearing, free guided hikes, and the restoration and upkeep of the historic park structures are all completed with volunteers. It takes a community of stewards to maintain this beautiful slice of paradise that we Philadelphians love so much.

For people who want to get involved in volunteer stewardship of the Wissahickon on a deeper level, beyond regular Volunteer Service Days, FOW trains and organizes several smaller corps of volunteers to engage the public, lead volunteers, and much more.

Now through December 31, FOW is accepting applications for its next class for trained volunteer positions, which takes place between February and March 2025.

Do you love the park and want to make a positive difference? Do you want to meet new, like-minded friends? One of the programs below could be right for you. Here’s a snapshot of what these volunteers do:

Trail Ambassadors are park docents who provide outreach and education to park visitors by taking hiking shifts, leading guided hikes, staffing information tables in the Wissahickon and the surrounding community, and assisting at FOW Volunteer Service Days. Trail Ambassadors are the eyes and ears of FOW, providing information to park users and reporting service needs back to us. It’s an important job because it is through this corps that we are better able to serve the public and steward the park.

Crew Leaders are a corps of stewards who are trained in leading volunteer groups in the Wissahickon, building and improving trails, restoring habitat, and sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. They work directly with FOW staff to plan and lead volunteer service days throughout the park. With the constant natural and human stresses on the park, Crew Leaders play an integral role in keeping the Wissahickon beautiful and healthy for all who visit.

If you’re friendly, outgoing, and eager to take on a dedicated stewardship role in the Wissahickon, please consider applying for one of these volunteer programs. You can apply here.