Award Winning Docent Program!
Dana Point is not only home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California, but also to the Nature Interpretive Center Docent Program that recently won the Creating Community Excellence For Environmental Stewardship award from the California Park & Recreation Society. As a city, Dana Point was recognized and honored in March, at the 70th Annual California Parks & Recreation Society Conference & Expo.
The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center is made up of a team of docents – enthusiastic volunteers that work to maintain and provide education for the visitor center for the conservation area. The docents create opportunities for residents and visitors that encourage them to engage, learn, and thrive in nature. The center offers public walks through the Headlands all month long with three different themes including a nature tour, whale watching, and historical tour. It’s the perfect place for to learn about what our local surroundings have to offer.
Why We Do What We Do
The docents work six days a week to provide a positive space for youth with the inspiration of nature. All of which helps to decrease crime and mischief in our community. Each activity at the Nature Interpretive Center facilitates social connections, human development, therapy, the arts, and lifelong learning. Not only do our visitors benefit but so do our docents. Volunteering provides a sense of pride and identity within the community as well as a sense of confidence. It’s only natural that the more we give, the better we feel; and our docents get to experience their accomplishments on a regular basis.
The Importance of Community
As the Nature Interpretive Center is responsible for providing meaningful experiences for the public while promoting conservation and environmental stewardship, we are lucky to have a community that has embraced the importance of the program and in return has helped to enhance the destination in the middle of an urbanized area.
It’s the little things in life that matter like appreciating nature’s resources. Want to be a part of an award-winning team? The Docent program is always looking for passionate volunteers to join the Nature Interpretive Center. Visit our page for more details!