The Frances Perkins National Monument and its philanthropic partner, the Frances Perkins Center, are seeking volunteers for the 2026 season, from June 17 through October 11. This 57-acre National Park Service site in Newcastle, Maine, preserves the family homestead of U.S. Secretary of Labor Frances Perkins (1880–1965).

The Frances Perkins National Monument’s Welcome Center, historic barn, grounds, and trails will be open to the public from June 17 through October 11, Wednesday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The site features a self-guided exhibit on the Life and Legacy of Frances Perkins, along with photographs and personal and family artifacts from the Frances Perkins Center’s collection and a small retail area. 

Volunteers will welcome visitors, answer questions about the site, and help monitor indoor and outdoor areas to ensure visitor safety and comfort. While volunteers may be stationed throughout the site as needed, most time will be spent in the historic barn monitoring the exhibit or greeting guests in the Welcome Center. Volunteers are part of the National Park Service “Volunteers in Parks” (VIP) program and will be provided with a required uniform shirt.

Volunteer shifts are available throughout the season and can be flexible, with options for partial or full-day commitments. Preference will be given to volunteers who can commit to a consistent weekly schedule. Required training—provided at no cost by the Frances Perkins Center and the National Park Service—covers the life of Frances Perkins, the history of the site, and interpretation best practices.

For more information or to apply, please contact Mary Reid, Programs Coordinator:  mreid@francesperkinscenter.org.