Feelin’ helpful. Might sweep the leg later. 🥋   Strike first! Expected to be a modest program when it began in December 1970, the Volunteers-in-the-Parks (VIP) program quickly developed into a vital program to support the National Park Service mission. With the program’s surging success, it became increasingly important to distinguish between VIPs and NPS employees for the public. From colorful vests, smocks, cardigans, belts, and shirts, volunteer uniforms and insignia have evolved over time, but each has represented the dedication of those who freely give their time and talents for the benefit of national parks. Volunteers continue to be an essential part of the national park mission. In 2023 more than 123,000 volunteers donated over 3.7 million hours of service.    Image 1: A “distinctive cardigan vest” was created for volunteers in 1975. Vests were created for men and women and worn over street clothes appropriate to the volunteer’s work.  Image 2: Early volunteer vest designed...