On May 13, 2025 EPAC was honored to receive the Pennsylvania Parks & Forest Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award (Group/Organization). The PPFF Awards recognize exceptional contributions to preserving, managing, and enhancing Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests through stewardship, volunteerism, and innovative programs.
AWARD SUMMARY:
A relatively new organization, the Eastern Pennsylvania Alliance of Climbers (EPAC) was created during the COVID-19 pandemic and has quickly become a vital partner for the state parks and forests boasting a unique “climbing resource.” EPAC’s dedication to fostering a community of responsible climbers that contribute their time and energy to sustainable outdoor recreation initiatives is exemplary. From trail maintenance and clean-up efforts to educational workshops and safety training, EPAC volunteers are deeply involved in activities that enhance and preserve our natural landscapes. Their volunteer model emphasizes the importance of having ambassadors across eastern Pennsylvania climbing areas to give guidance, information, and support to other agencies. EPAC’s over 150 climbers and outdoor recreation advocates are projected to have over 1,000 volunteer hours over the past year alone.
This engagement not only supports the sustainability and accessibility of climbing areas but also contributes significantly to the overall health and aesthetics of our state parks. EPAC has recently completed a project at Ralph Stover’s High Rocks that focused on restoring and strengthening the trails along the cliff face. EPAC is also advocating for more protected climbing areas across eastern Pennsylvania and are adding climbing sites every year. By utilizing their passion for outdoor recreation, EPAC has developed a model of volunteerism that stands as a testament to the power of community involvement in conservation efforts.
