PARK AMBASSADORS, 2: Harnessing youthful enthusiasm 
to support state parks ... on Passport to Texas

This is Passport to Texas

If you're under 30 years old chances are you've spent less 
time outdoors than previous generations.

Ky Harkey is the outdoor education and outreach 
coordinator for state parks, and oversees the Texas State 
Park Ambassador Program, which targets these 
"millennials." 

21 -- The millennial generation, if you will -- roughly 16 to 28 
year olds or so -- is a particular focus for us - trying to bring 
that audience into parks. The millennials that are out there 
right now that love Texas State Parks, and are already our 
advocates, the Ambassador program gives them the tools that 
they need to help promote Texas State Parks, and the benefits 
of outdoor recreation with their peers.

Volunteer Ambassadors work to increase visitation of 
young adults in State Parks.

15 -- In a hyper, online digital world today, we see that 
actually word-of-mouth marketing is still one of the best ways 
to bring new audiences into our parks. Through videos, and 
photos and inspiring stories, it's trying to light a fire under 
these millenials that are not getting outdoors right now.

Ambassadors receive free admission and camping sites at 
state parks, and then share their experiences and help 
others create memories.

06 -- They have created videos promoting Texas State parks; 
they've hosted concerts in the parks. So, we see the success 
not only in the individual touches that they've had with new 
audiences, but in the work that they are doing to pioneer the 
future of the Ambassador program.

Visit texasstateparksorg and find out how to become a SP 
ambassador. 

For Texas Parks and Wildlife, I'm Cecilia Nasti.


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