2007 AmeriCorps members and staff

Florida State Parks AmeriCorps, which began in 1997, is part of a larger national service movement called AmeriCorps. Nationwide, AmeriCorps engages over 50,000 citizens of all ages and backgrounds each year in results-driven community service in the areas of education, public safety, human needs and the environment. In return, AmeriCorps members earn education awards that help pay for school or repay student loans.

The Florida State Parks AmeriCorps program is administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and operates in Florida's 159 state parks and their surrounding communities. In cooperation with Park staff, local organizations and schools, Florida State Parks AmeriCorps members provide service in the areas of habitat restoration, ADA compliance, prescribed burning, trail maintenance, cultural and historical restoration, environmental education and volunteer recruitment.

Mission of Florida State Parks AmeriCorps

To serve and strengthen Florida State Parks’ natural and cultural resources by addressing critical environmental and human needs.

The Florida Park Service includes 159 state archaeological and historic sites, gardens, parks and recreation areas. The Florida Park Service originated in the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) helped develop the first eight state parks. Florida State Parks AmeriCorps continues this legacy by restoring and improving park resources while revitalizing the ethic of service to the community and the nation.