The Walkway Over the Hudson nonprofit organization will offer two initial training workshops from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6 and Saturday, March 10 at New York State Park’s offices at 5 Parker Avenue in Poughkeepsie for people interested in becoming members of the Walkway’s Volunteer Ambassador corps.

Participants can choose to attend either session but must pre-register for training by contacting Walkway Director of Programs and Visitor Experience Theresa Sanchez at 845-454-9649 or email tsanchez@walkway.org.

Walkway Ambassadors are specially-trained volunteers who enhance the visitor’s experience in numerous ways and allow for a diversity of programming that would be otherwise unavailable at the Walkway Over the Hudson Historic State Park. Volunteering at the Walkway is a way to meet interesting people while supporting the Walkway mission, which is to enhance the Walkway experience, support capital improvements, and deliver innovative programs that attract visitors and contribute to the economic vitality of the Hudson Valley.

To become a Walkway Ambassador, participants must complete the required training and commit to 50 volunteer hours per year.  Ambassadors who serve 50+ hours may have the opportunity to go on select field trips to other popular New York parks and historic sites, as well as the chance to take part in an array of continuing education seminars.

Easily identifiable in their red Walkway vests, the Ambassadors serve as tour guides, greeters, and provide information during times of peak usage at the Walkway, which has attracted nearly four million visitors since it opened in 2009. Walkway Ambassadors support New York State Parks and the many local nonprofit events where thousands of dollars are raised each year. The new Ambassadors will join a cadre of over 150 volunteers.