Thirty people were honored at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner held at Belle Isle State Park on January 27.The theme was “Volunteers Warm Our Hearts” and the room was decorated in an island theme.
Volunteers contributed over 7000 hours in 2010.Activities were recorded in several areas.Camp Hosts were couples that lived at the park and contributed 30 hours each per week helping in the camp store and campground in exchange for free camping.
The Chesapeake Bay Governor’s School (CBGS) holds an annual Earth Day celebration in April at the park.Elementary students from 13 school districts are teamed with CBGS students and learn about water ecology, wildlife, pollution and other topics.
The Friends of Belle Isle helped with several events, including the Easter Egg Hunt and Halloween.Their biggest project was Music by the River, an annual series of eight concerts held throughout the summer.The Friends raise a considerable amount of donations to help keep the concerts free for the community.
The park had nine interpretive assistants that helped with canoe trips, hayrides and general programming.
The largest contribution was made by the Youth Conservation Corps.Every year several parks host teams of teenagers and adult crew leaders that help with projects at the park.The 2010 project was a canoe-in campground.
The dinner had two distinguished guests. Gaston Rouse, Director of Volunteer Services for Virginia State Parks, noted that Belle Isle has one of the top Friends groups in Virginia.Resident Belle Isle pirate Wet Willy described a crew he sailed with that strangely resembled several attendees, much to the delight of listeners.Everyone went home with door prizes.
Belle Isle State Park appreciates the hard work of all of its volunteers.Several programs and projects would not be possible without their commitment.
Reservations for camping may be made through our reservation center by calling 800 933 7275. The center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but is closed all state holidays. You can also make reservations on line any time day or not. Reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance. Same day camping and cabin reservations, when sites are available, must be made through the reservation center.