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PA Parks & Forests Foundation Names Kathryn Giblin First Volunteer Coordinator

On August 13, the PA Parks and Forests Foundation named Kathryn Giblin the Foundation’s first Volunteer Coordinator.

This newly created role marks a significant milestone in PPFF’s history, reflecting our ongoing commitment to fostering stewardship and enhancing the volunteer experience across Pennsylvania's state parks and forests.

Kathryn’s addition to the team underscores our dedication to engaging communities and promoting conservation within the state.

The Volunteer Coordinator role was created to help advance PPFF’s mission to inspire stewardship in Pennsylvania's 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forest lands.

Kathryn will be responsible for coordinating volunteer workdays, skill-building, education, and training sessions, collaborating with 45+ Friends Groups chapters, advancing a stewardship program, and advocating for Leave No Trace principles.

Kathryn brings over 10 years of experience working with volunteers into her new position.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Sociology degree (double major) from the University of Pittsburgh, recently returning from earning her Master of Arts in Anthropology degree from Queen’s University in Belfast, Ireland, and working abroad, her experiences range vastly, including working with charity gardens, guide dog organizations, children’s zoos, digital skills support, and the National Wild Turkey Federation.

“I look forward to harnessing my skills to create and manage dynamic volunteer programs that enhance the conservation of Pennsylvania’s natural landscapes,” said Kathryn. “This position offers the chance to work closely with passionate individuals and local communities, fostering stronger connections to our parks and forests. I am excited to learn more about the people who contribute to the running and upkeep of our parks and forests as well as new conservation strategies.”

“Volunteers play an important role in the stewardship of Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests,” said Marci Mowery, President of the PA Parks and Forests Foundation. “We are excited to welcome Kathryn to the Foundation. How people engage in volunteerism is changing and to continue the work that we do, we must adapt to those changes. Kathryn will be working with not only our dedicated friends groups, but with individuals and corporations, as well.”

Kathryn’s skills and passion will be invaluable as we continue to build relationships and promote environmental stewardship throughout the state, ensuring that PPFF’s volunteers are well-equipped and motivated to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of our natural spaces.

Visit the PA Parks & Forests Foundation’s Events webpage and DCNR’s Calendar of Events for activities happening near you.

Visit Explore PA Trails and Get Outdoors PA for recreation areas near you.

For more information on programs, initiatives, special events and how you can get involved, visit the PA Parks & Forests Foundation website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the Foundation, Like them on Facebook or Follow them on Twitter or tune in to their YouTube Channel. Click Here to become a member of the Foundation.

The Foundation and their 48 chapters mobilize 65,000 volunteers annually to steward YOUR state parks and forests.

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-- PA Parks & Forests Foundation Names Kathryn Giblin First Volunteer Coordinator [PaEN]

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