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The Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department is looking for individuals or groups who want to volunteer their time to assist the department with events or minor projects (landscaping, cleaning parks, etc.) by joining the “Friends of the Park” program. Throughout the year, the department puts on multiple events and are always looking for extra help when it comes to set up/tear down, monitoring inflatables, dressing up in costumes, etc.

“We are looking for individuals who have a strong connection to their community and benefitting from the rewards of giving back to those who live here,” says Program and Special Events Coordinator Kelly Kitchens. “Parks and Recreation strives to provide free entertainment as much as we are able, but without hands to help work, those opportunities just simply aren’t possible. In order to ensure Parks and Recreation’s services cannot only continue, but grow, volunteer help is vital. Seeing a child’s face light up as they see their favorite character during a meet and greet, not having a parent worry about paying for their child to play on inflatables, enjoy time during a foam party, or watch a magician spark wonder and excitement in their minds — are just some of the many rewards of serving during our special events. Each of us who live and love Elizabethton want the best for our citizens here and times like these are built for those who want to ensure that happens!”

From time to time, the department also has beautification projects where they plant flowers and trees, trim bushes, or pick up trash. In the past, they have seen this as a great opportunity for high school students looking for volunteer hours for scholarships.

Over the past few years, “Friends of the Park” had different churches help with beautification projects at various parks and local schools/universities assist with special events, and they are tremendously grateful for the work they did. Joining the “Friends of the Park” is a great way to serve the City of Elizabethton and contribute to the continued growth of the department. The department has been fortunate to be able to increase and expand upon the events and programs they put on each year and adding volunteers will allow them to do even more. Volunteer groups also allows for creating more beautiful spaces throughout the city.

If you would like to volunteer, please call (423) 547-6441 or (423) 547-3008, or email dvines@cityofelizabethton.org or kkitchens@cityofelizabethton.org. The Parks and Rec Department will be having a meeting in the future where the entire group of volunteers will get together and discuss various projects/events and expectations.

For more information on our upcoming events, visit their website at www.elizabethton.org or follow their Facebook and Instagram.