It is certainly interesting to read all of the comments by volunteers and ex volunteers. I now know that I am not alone in my displeasure and that the State of Texas can do a much better job managing their volunteer program.
After numerous requests to one park, without any apology for tardiness, I received a response. After few emails a date to begin was set: pending a background check. It's been over two weeks with no further correspondence from the volunteer coordinator.
I have just read an article dealing with the struggles of Red Lobster and Olive Garden that read in part, "The shake-up comes as Darden Restaurants Inc. struggles to keep pace with a shifting industry..." Yes, I do think Texas Parks and Wildlife could do a better job of managing the volunteer program.
When I worked at a bank many years ago, I waited on this gentleman every day who opened his gas station at 4 A.M. I asked him WHY? His response was that you never wanted to give your customer a reason to go somewhere else. I see too many businesses who do not understand the concept of customer service!
Just as basic guidelines for park management flows from TPWD in Austin, so should the basic guidelines for managing the volunteers. Mismanagement is not caused by lack of money, mismanagement is caused by lack of qualifications and lack of caring!
