Tom Carter says his volunteer work as a park host at the Rose Garden in Portland is “priceless.”
“Being a park host volunteer is perfect for me. I enjoy talking to people. I like to be outside on the trails. The times and duration are entirely up to me, although it makes sense to volunteer on sunny, weekend days when the need is the greatest!” Carter said.
Volunteer park hosts help pass out info on Portland Parks and Recreation’s famous Washington Park and attractions like the International Rose Test Garden, Oregon Zoo, Portland Childrens’ Museum, World Forestry Center, Portland Japanese Garden and Hoyt Arboretum.
“I joined the Park Host program some ten years ago when I happened across a fellow in a yellow vest near the Rose Garden. Bob was handing out maps and answering questions from tourists,” said Carter. “I asked him about his job, found it was a volunteer position, and that I could apply. I did so and was soon the proud owner of a yellow ‘park host’ vest, a batch of literature about the park, and a bundle of maps to hand out.”
“Because the Rose Garden area was nicely covered with volunteers, I chose to walk the trails in Washington Park and the Hoyt Arboretum. There I found many tourists in need of a map and directions. They had questions about the park, wanted to see a particular tree or feature, or were just seeking advice on where to hike. My first day I encountered a couple who was lost. The map did not overcome their despair, so I walked them back to their car.
I live near the park and frequently hike the trails year-long. People are usually friendly, but with the yellow vest and the handful of free maps, people become unusually engaging and talkative. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting individuals from all over the country and the world as they enjoy the beauty of Portland’s parks. Occasionally, I remind people that their dogs should be leashed, but I’ve never had a bad experience from anyone.”
Park hosts are valued ambassadors who give directions, hand out pamphlets, and answer basic questions on Washington Park and its attractions.Volunteers can pick their days and hours and volunteer outside with Portland Parks & Recreation at Washington Park.
For information, call Harry Landers, curator of the International Rose Test Garden, for more information at (503) 823-3636.
