As part of the United States National Park Service’s 100th celebration, it is challenging Americans to find a national park that draws them in, that fits their lifestyle — one that they can support.

During the Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce’s luncheon on Wednesday, Vicksburg National Military Park Superintendent Bill Justice passed NPS’ challenge to Vicksburg residents.

“We’re trying to encourage people to find that special park, that place you can make a connection to. The Find Your Park mission is a part of that. With its centennial, the park service is inviting a new generation to discover the special places that belong to them because in the end, if the young people—if everybody—doesn’t have a vested interest in the parks—in their parks—will parks be around in the future?” he said. “Find your park. Your park doesn’t need to be your park because of why it was set aside. These parks weren’t just set aside just to only experience (that). There are a ton of other reasons why they are set aside.”

Justice recounted his special connection to a national park he visited as a child as his reason for being connected to it and encouraged those in attendance to find their park for similar reasons, noting it didn’t necessarily have to the VNMP but proximity makes it easy to get involved.

“Your park can be something you’re actively involved in and give back to,” he said.

“One of the things we’re really trying to push this year is creating a volunteer program. We already have volunteers. They do so many things, but we are looking to do so much more.”

Cleaning, touring, manning the information desk, painting cannon carriages and placing flags on graves in the cemetery are all made possible through volunteers, Justice said.

Setting up a program for more volunteers to clear paths and lead tours are just a few examples Justice gave of work needed in the park.

“I encourage you to think seriously about volunteering at the park. If you have some great idea about what your volunteer participation could be and what programs we could offer, get with (us),” he said. “We are only limited, as far as volunteer activities, by the limitations we place on ourselves. If you would like to help us and give back to this park, connect with us.”

For information about how to volunteer at the park or to provide suggestions contact Will Wilson at will_wilson@nps.gov or 601-636-0583.