As you are probably aware, the Virginia Association For Parks (VAP) and Friends of Virginia Parks are actively engaged in assisting state and national parks throughout the commonwealth. The VAP recently received national attention when it was featured in the Saving the Legacy of the National System of Parks report published by the National Park Trust. A copy of the article is attached.

Among our primary goals is the desire to organize or strengthen volunteer park support organizations in Virginia. The VAP acknowledges the increased demands on parks, coupled with austere levels of personnel and funding. Parks with active, viable volunteer organizations have been able to provide valuable services in their parks, with volunteers contributing thousands of hours annually. Assistance to park staff and visitor services have been both significant to the park and rewarding to the volunteers. Park support organizations throughout Virginia have provided much needed advocacy, educational programs, fundraising, and volunteer services for our parks. Recognizing this potential, the VAP has undertaken the mission of assisting park support organizations where they exist and helping to organize them in parks without a support group.

The next meeting of the Virginia Association for Parks and Friends of Virginia Parks will be held at:

Fairy Stone State Park in Stuart,Virginia
Saturday, November 4
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

We cordially invite you, a staff member, and a volunteer from your park to attend. Lunch is included in the registration fee. The primary agenda will include organizational discussions and development of a blended vision for Virginia Association For Parks and Friends of Virginia Parks for 2001. You are welcome to propose additional agenda items for discussion.

To reach Fairy Stone State Park from I-81 near Roanoke, take exit to Route 581 to Route 220 South to Route 57 West to Route 346 North (Fairystone Lake Drive). From I-77 near Hillsville, take Route 58 East to Route 8 North to Route 57 East to Route 346 North (Fairystone Lake Drive). The park phone number is 540-930-2424. Attached is additional information regarding the park, facilities, and park cabin rentals.

As we prepare for our statewide meeting this November, please take this opportunity to share with us how we can assist your park or your park support organization. We hope to see you in November.

Sincerely

Chuck Traub and Robert L. Williams, Jr.
Co-Chairs