Why You Should Donate!

National Parks are an integral part of our lives.  In a globally challenged environment, they help to preserve nature and provide opportunities for education and recreational enjoyment.  On a more personal level, they provide visitors the opportunity to re-connect with their national heritage whether it be natural, cultural, or historic.  And economically, many National Parks provide the potential for tourism-based economies, much like that of St. John.

The U.S.V.I. National Park encompasses over 7,000 acres, both above and below sea.  Within the park visitors will find over 30 species of tropical birds, 2 endangered sea turtles, more than 800 species of trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants, to name a few.  Funding is required to help the National Park Service's ability to protect the parks' historic structures and marine ecosystems.  Currently, over 60% of support for Friends of the National Park comes from the generous donations of individuals, like you.

WHO is this all about?

The U.S. Virgin Islands National Park, on the island of St. John, and their official (non-profit) private sector partner Friends of the National Park, responsible for the preservation and protection of the park’s natural and cultural resources. 

WHAT event is taking place?

Carolyn Rebeck, Sales Manager for Caneel Bay, a Rosewood Resort, located within the U.S.V.I. Nation Park is running the New York City Marathon to raise monetary donations for the Park via Friends of the National Park.

WHEN is the race?

Sunday, November 1st.

WHERE will the monies be allocated?

• Eco-camps designed for kids to study marine and terrestrial ecosystems through hiking, snorkeling and discussion.
• SKIP (School Kids in the Park) designed to familiarize VI students with their National Park through hands on learning and site visits.
• Scholarship Funds
• Summer Internships for university students studying a science-related field.
• Construction and reconstruction of park exhibits.
• Archeological research and internships.
• Creating and maintaining accessible park trails.
• Coral reef research and protection.
• Installation of moorings to protect sea grasses, mangroves, turtle habitat and coral reefs from damage by boat anchors