GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — National parks are scattered across the country dedicated to preserving and protecting America’s natural beauty and wonders. But one key element is the only thing that allows them to operate normally: their group of friends.
What is a friend group? What purpose does it serve when it comes to something as big as a national park? WesternSlopeNow’s Dalen Brazelton talks with partners at Colorado National Monument and Mesa Verde National Park. I sat down and investigated.
“The Friends Group is a philanthropic partner of the National Parks Department. So we actually have two agreements with the Park Service, one is a cooperative organization,” said Johanna Van Wave, executive director of the Colorado National Monuments Association. Ren says. “That contract is tied to the bookstore. So basically, all of the revenue that we make from the Colorado National Monument bookstore and gift shop goes right back into the park because of this agreement that we have. You can.”
Mr Van Waveren added: “We also have a philanthropic agreement, or ‘Friends Group’ agreement, which allows us to raise money through a variety of means, including fundraising events, memberships, donations and grants. “You can do that,” he added.
Our close ties to the National Park and its Friends Group provide unique opportunities to interact with surrounding communities and visitors.
Sarah Rank, business manager for the Mesa Verde Association, tells WesternSlopeNow. We are part of something much bigger than ourselves, and it has existed for much longer than we have existed as individuals. I think we have a desire to continue that and improve. ”
The Friends group works directly with the National Park Foundation, the official charity of the National Park Service.
“In fact, part of my job is to manage grants secured on behalf of Mesa Verde National Park, and many of those grants come from the National Park Foundation,” Rank added.
Even if the funds are obtained through grants and fundraisers, the funds will go back into developing programs such as Mesa Verde’s Native Ranger Internship Program, Colorado National Monument’s new mental health advocacy rangers and new amphitheater project.
Friends groups often have rich histories, like the Mesa Verde Society, which has been around for nearly a century.
“We are the second oldest cooperative organization that supports this park, but many people may not even know that it exists. As a staff member, we are very proud of that.” Looking back on the support, Rank said:
Grand Valley’s unique Friends Group is also celebrating a milestone this year: its 60th anniversary. Van Waveren said: “Six decades of support has been incredible. We have been able to accomplish so much for Colorado National Monument that would not have been possible without this group of friends.”
Whatever your favorite national park is, remember the group of friends who helped you along the way.
