Join us to share your love of nature and connect our community as a PVAS Ambassador.

PVAS Host: Erin Smaldone

This is a free/donation-based program. This program is for adults. Pre-registration is required

PVMN Continuing Education Credit Eligible

Join us for PVAS Ambassador Training, a hands-on introduction to three key volunteer roles that help connect our community with nature: Nature Center Ambassadors, Community Outreach Ambassadors, and Program Ambassadors. Whether you’re greeting guests at the Case Nature Center, representing PVAS at community events, or supporting educational programs in the field, this training will prepare you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need. You’ll learn how to welcome and guide visitors, share ways to explore Cool Spring Preserve and beyond, introduce our Animal Ambassadors, explain PVAS programs and membership opportunities, and support public events and activities. As a PVAS Ambassador, you’ll help people of all ages discover nature in a welcoming, friendly environment.

• Parking/Where to Meet: Registered participants will be emailed a Zoom link. You will be let in from the Zoom waiting room at the scheduled program start time.
• What to Bring: Paper and something to write with, though this is not required.

Register Here!

Registration will remain open until the start of the program.

If the required minimum # of people do not register by 4 pm the evening prior, the program will be cancelled.

Read our pricing structure & policies.

About our Host: Erin is the PVAS Volunteer Coordinator. Erin comes to us with over 20 years of experience and leadership in the fields of environmental/experiential education and interpretation. She worked with the National Park Service as an interpretive park ranger for several years and has many years of experience working with children in outdoor settings. She most recently served as the education director for the West Virginia Botanic Garden. She is looking forward to working with PVAS staff, volunteers, and community members to fulfil the PVAS mission, which closely aligns with her personal interests and passions related to the outdoors and teaching others. In her spare time, Erin enjoys gardening, photography, yoga, and spending time with friends and family.”