Congratulations!

Volunteer receives the Governor's Point of Light Award

Open Volunteer Positions at Paynes Prairie

Trail Monitor - Gainesville Hawthorne Trail

Assigned Tasks:
Monitor an assigned trail for public safety concerns such as leaning trees, cracks in pavement or depressions, wild dogs or anything out of the ordinary. Clear trail of trash and light debris such as fallen limbs, trim back over hanging debris as needed. Talk to park visitors about the natural and cultural significance of Paynes Prairie. Trim vegetation as needed.

Qualifications and/or Skills Required:
Enjoy working outdoors; ability to work independently or with staff; and ability to work with hand or power tools if needed. Some physical lifting may be required.

THE FUN STUFF > Being outside, of course, and answering the question, "Where are the buffalo????"

Visitor Center Host/Ranger Station Assistant

Assigned Tasks:
Greet visitors to the park, answer questions, provide directional information, operate a cash register, answer telephone and record information, monitor binocular loan program, operate a VCR, minimal computer operation, be responsible for handling money.

Qualifications and/or Skills Required:
Must enjoy talking with people; must be cordial, helpful and a good listener; have patience and tact with the public; knowledge of Florida State Parks desirable along with recreational camping, flora, fauna, and Florida history as it pertains to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.

THE FUN STUFF > Being in a beautiful setting with field guides at your fingertips. Inspiring the park visitors, and helping them REALLY enjoy their visit. Plus, you learn TONS as well...

Visitor Information Table Host on the La Chua Trail

Assigned Tasks: December through March only. Provide orientation, safety and park rules to visitors walking the La Chua trail. Provide answers to questions from park visitors about the wildlife, and history of Paynes Prairie.

Qualifications and/or Skills Required: Must be comfortable talking with large groups of people or individuals. Must be articulate and able to learn new information quickly. Should have an interest in wildlife, geology, and history, and be willing to share wildlife sightings with others. Must also be prepared to sit outside in a variety of weather conditions for several hours at a time.

THE FUN STUFF > Spending the day in a beautiful location along the La Chua trail, chatting with lots of really happy people about the amazing natural resources found within the preserve.

Graphic/Web Designer

Assigned Tasks:
Work independently, with park staff, or with other volunteers including the Citizen Support Organization (CSO) on graphic/web projects, including, brochures, newsletters, flyers, kiosks, and web sites.

Qualifications and/or Skills Required:
Must provide samples of work and show skills in the use of computer graphics applications. Must be creative, motivated, and interested in using design skills for socially responsible, environmentally friendly purposes.

THE FUN STUFF > Applying your creative skills to a good cause.

If you are interested in additional information, click here to send us an email.