As a valued contributor to BC Parks, I would like to invite BCHBC members to help BC Parks develop a province-wide volunteer strategy at upcoming regional workshops.

In 2011, BC Parks celebrated its 100th Anniversary, commemorating the establishment of Strathcona Provincial Park in 1911 and celebrating the creation of almost 1000 parks and protected areas since then. This successful celebration would not have been possible without the valuable contributions from volunteers across the province, more than 2500 volunteers participated!

To build on this success, BC Parks is developing a volunteer strategy to improve the volunteer experience for our existing and future volunteers. Our goal is to develop a strategy over the next few months and launch it in the upcoming summer season.

The workshops will provide you with an opportunity to:

• Share the work you or your organization has done in support of BC Parks;
• Contribute to a discussion about how BC Parks can improve the volunteer experience;
• Provide input on future volunteer opportunities you would like to see; and,
• Network with BC Parks staff and other volunteer groups.

Workshops will be held in February and March in nine locations across the province. You are welcome to attend the workshop location that best fits with your schedule and travel abilities.

Please RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , Project Assistant based on RSVP dates listed below. You will receive a confirmation email with detailed workshop information no later than two weeks prior to the workshop.

If you are unable to participate in any of the workshops, please submit written comments by March 16, 2012. If you have any questions about the volunteer strategy, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , BC Parks Project Manager.

Please join us at one of the following workshops:

• Victoria - February 6, 9 am – 12 pm; RSVP by January 27
• Prince George - February 10, 9 am -12 pm; RSVP by January 27
• Smithers - February 13, 9 am -12 pm; RSVP by February 3
• Vancouver - February 16, 1-4 pm; RSVP by February 3
• Penticton - February 20, 1-4 pm; RSVP by February 10
• Williams Lake - February 24, 9 am - 12 pm; RSVP by February 10
• Miracle Beach - February 28, 1-4 pm; RSVP by February 17
• Nelson - March 5, 1-4 pm; RSVP by February 24
• Cranbrook - March 7, 9 am – 12 pm; RSVP by February 24
• Kamloops - March 12, 9 am – 12 pm; RSVP by February 24

Regards, Lori Halls, Assistant Deputy Minister BC Parks and Conservation Officer Service

5th Floor, 2975 Jutland Road | Victoria, BC | V8T 5J9 | 250 387-6177