Volunteer

Who Are Walkway Ambassadors?

Our red-vested Walkway Ambassadors are the welcoming faces you see when you visit the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. They are the pulse of the Walkway, serving as greeters, tour guides and information providers, and assisting Park staff. Volunteer Ambassadors enjoy giving back to the community by sharing their time and knowledge of the region to enhance the Walkway experience.

You can join this energized and committed Ambassador corps, now more than 150 strong, and be a part of Walkway Over the Hudson's connection to more than 600,000 visitors each year. Walkway Ambassadors come from all walks of life. Whether you are retired, empty-nesting, or just seeking to become part of a fun and lively group of people, we encourage you to join us!

Video Credit: Ann Weiser, Neil Krupnick, Ethan Thompson

Ambassador Training

New Ambassadors receive comprehensive training on the rich history of the Walkway, from its origins as a bustling railroad bridge to its transformation into a beloved pedestrian landmark. Both classroom and on-bridge sessions cover key topics such as program offerings, Walkway events, frequently asked public questions, and notable local attractions visible from the bridge.

The required training is designed with flexibility, allowing New Ambassadors to explore various volunteer roles, connect with experienced Ambassadors, and gain a wealth of knowledge. Ambassadors take pride in their expertise—not only about the Walkway but also about local attractions, historic sites, and community organizations. Their ability to engage with both tourists and local visitors helps create the park’s welcoming atmosphere.

Recognized by New York State as a model for park volunteer programs, our initiative continues to set the standard for community engagement and visitor experience.

Upon completing the required training, new trainees are officially “vested” by their mentors during our Vesting Ceremony.

Once vested, Ambassadors have the flexibility to volunteer at their own pace—there are no mandatory shift or hour requirements per month or year. The Walkway volunteer program is designed to accommodate individual availability and interests, allowing volunteers to engage in ways that suit them best.

What do Walkway Ambassadors do?

Walkway Ambassadors:

Create a welcoming environment for all visitors and peers
Promote safety at all times, being aware of visitors and surroundings
Provide information and guidance on “what to do in the area”
Sell Walkway apparel and souvenirs
Lead tours and communicate the work of the organization
Promote membership and volunteer recruitment
Provide program and event assistance including, planning, management, logistics, traffic control, etc.
Provide resources and skills to help maintain the Walkway's reputation as a world renowned attraction

What do our Ambassadors say?

Here are some quotes from a few of our ambassadors:

The Walkway is a great opportunity for any volunteer. It's a way to connect with the community; let visitors know about the beauty and history of the area; and to interact with visitors who are always in a good mood. --Kevin

It's a great way to meet lots of interesting people and to support the Walkway. --Judy

Since the Walkway opened in 2009, I have loved chatting with visitors from all over the world. Now that I am retired, I have a great group of new friends and lots to keep me busy. --Michele

We welcome new volunteers who wish to share their unique skills with the Walkway and our visitors!

Contact

Interested in becoming a Walkway Ambassador or would like to inquire about other volunteer opportunities? Contact the Manager of Volunteer Services and Programs Tamara Palmateer at 845-454-9649 x4 or email volunteer@walkway.org.

Thank you and see you on the Walkway!

Ambassador Login

Interested in Becoming a Walkway Ambassador?