Peirce Mill Event Support Volunteer

Volunteer Position Overview

Rock Creek Park is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to assist with public programs and special events hosted in partnership with the Friends of Peirce Mill (FOPM). Volunteers help create welcoming, engaging, and educational visitor experiences connected to the history, culture, and natural resources of Peirce Mill and Rock Creek Park. Programs may include living history demonstrations, family activities, educational workshops, community festivals, seasonal programming, and special events.

Duties

Volunteers may assist with:

• Greeting and orienting visitors during events and programs
• Assisting with event set-up and break-down, including tables, tents, chairs, and activity materials
• Supporting children’s activities, crafts, games, and hands-on demonstrations
• Distributing program materials, maps, and informational handouts
• Assisting National Park Service staff and authorized presenters with crowd flow and visitor engagement
• Monitoring activity areas to help maintain a safe and organized environment
• Providing basic information about Peirce Mill, Rock Creek Park, and event schedules
• Supporting special event logistics and visitor services operations
• Assisting with light administrative or inventory tasks related to programs and events

Qualifications

• Friendly, dependable, and comfortable interacting with the public
• Ability to work cooperatively with NPS staff, partners, and other volunteers
• Interest in history, education, community events, or public service preferred
• Ability to follow NPS safety procedures and volunteer guidelines
• No prior experience required; training will be provided

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods during events
• Ability to lift and carry light materials (up to 25 pounds) with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions

Time Commitment

Volunteer opportunities are available on weekends during special events throughout the year. Scheduling is flexible based on volunteer availability and program needs. Volunteers are asked to support a minimum of two events per year.

Applicants must include the event dates they are available to support as part of the application process.

Upcoming Event Dates

• Water Power Day: July 18, 2026 (Rain Date: July 19, 2026)
• Friends of Peirce Mill Square Dance: August 29, 2026 (Rain Date: August 30, 2026)
• Children’s Day: September 12, 2026 (Rain Date: September 13, 2026)
• Grain Fair: October 18, 2026

Training Provided

Volunteers will receive orientation and task-specific training from Friends of Peirce Mill and National Park Service staff. All volunteers must complete required National Park Service volunteer paperwork and onboarding requirements prior to beginning service.

Benefits

• Gain experience supporting public programs and special events
• Learn about local history, milling technology, and National Park Service interpretation
• Build skills in visitor engagement, education, and event operations
• Support meaningful community programming in Rock Creek Park

About Peirce Mill

Peirce Mill is a historic water-powered gristmill located in Rock Creek Park and operated in partnership with the Friends of Peirce Mill. The site preserves the history of milling, community life, and industrial technology in Washington, DC.

Application Information

Application Deadline: July 31st, 2026