Stewards VISTA: Gateway National Recreation Area Y3

Gateway National Recreation Area was created in 1972 to provide urban communities in New York and New Jersey with access to America¿s parks . , Gateway offers opportunities for outdoor learning and family-friendly recreation near one of the nation¿s largest population centers.

Recognizing the importance of connecting youth to nature, Gateway joined with the National Park Foundation and the Open Outdoors for Kids program to engage 4th-grade students from urban schools. The program introduces students to curriculum-based experiences that promote responsible stewardshipThese efforts have helped form a growing network of educators and partners dedicated to strengthening outdoor education.

An AmeriCorps VISTA member contributes behind the scenes¿building partnerships, coordinating logistics, and creating tools that enable educators and volunteers to deliver meaningful programming. This includes developing and sharing educational materials, recruiting and training volunteers, and strengthening outreach to schools across the metro area.

Through this indirect service, the VISTA member helps extend the park¿s educational impact far beyond a single school year. By the end of their term, the member will leave behind tools and systems that promote self-sustaining programming and deeper community connections to Gateway¿s parks.