January 2025

Cody Ewing pictured at the Dinosaur Park, 2024

Rare dinosaur fossil that was found by Department paleologist pictured at the Dinosaur Park, 2023

This month, we’re excited to highlight Cody Ewing, whose passion for paleontology has made a remarkable impact on our team! Cody currently serves as a Paleontology Assistant at the Department's Dinosaur Park. Currently serving in the United States Army, Cody began volunteering with encouragement from the Army along with his interest in paleontology. Cody shared "When I learned about the opportunity, I was interested not only in paleontology but also the ability to learn and teach others about the vast natural history in this area."


In 2024, Cody contributed 127 hours assisting with identifying fossils, organizing collections, and supporting fieldwork. His attention to detail and enthusiasm for the field of paleontology has been a great addition to the Dinosaur Park Team.


One of the standout moments in his volunteer journey was during a dig at the Park when a patron discovered what they thought was a rock. After showing Cody, Cody stated "something seemed off" about the item and called over Park Staff. This so called "rock" was identified as part of a theropod bone. Theropod dinosaurs were a group of carnivorous dinosaurs, that lived millions of years ago and are now extinct. Cody stated "the excitement of the patron and the fact of what was first just a rock turned out to be a piece of rare bone was pretty amazing for me."


Not only is Cody dedicated to the technical aspects of paleontology, he also engages in educational efforts to inspire future generations of paleontologists. When local schools tour the park, Cody has been essential with helping students identify fossils, sharing his knowledge about fossils and prehistoric life with young students.


When asked what motivates him to keep volunteering, Cody expressed his gratitude for the Dinosaur Park staff. "I can't began to describe how thankful I am to have the opportunity to help this team out. There's so many staff at the park who've made my experience wonderful. They have made me feel welcomed throughout my experience and provided me with a number of opportunities that I will never forget."


Looking to the future, Cody plans to continue his service at the Dinosaur Park while he remains stationed in the area. Beyond his volunteer work, Cody can be found enjoying the natural history of Maryland, indulging in anime or raising his pet gecko.


Thank you, Cody, for your dedication and for inspiring others to explore the wonders of Earth’s past!

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering click here!

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

This month we honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King was born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 15, 1968. He grew up in the segregated South and became committed to fighting racial injustice. Dr. King is considered one of the most prominent figures in American history as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement. He is best known for his leadership in pivotal events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955) along with March on Washington in 1963, where he delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.  His efforts contributed to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.


King spent much of his life advocating for racial equality, economic justice, and peace until his assassination on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. His legacy lives on as a symbol of justice and social change.


In 1993, Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service was established as a federal holiday in the United States to honor Dr. King's legacy. It is observed annually on the third Monday of January as an opportunity for Americans to engage in volunteerism and acts of service in their communities.


In honor of MLK Jr. Day of Service, the Department is collecting items for women and children in support of St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth, and Family. Please see flyer for more information on donation drive.

If you would like to commit more than just a day to serving the people in your community, visit pgparks.com/volunteer

Record Your Hours Today!

Thank you for your dedication to making a difference! To help us recognize your contributions, we kindly ask all volunteers to record your hours. Volunteer Services uses this information to send invitations to special events, to make nominations for awards and recognition and to generate reports for Department leaders. 


Recording your volunteer hours is an essential part of tracking your contributions, reflecting on your impact, and meeting any requirements for school, work, or community programs. Visit pgparks.com/volunteer to log hours, check volunteer placements, and sign-up for your next opportunity today!

Volunteer Opportunities

Are you a student looking for Student-Service Learning hours?


The Department offers students the opportunity to complete meaningful volunteer service within your community, gain a great learning experience, all while obtaining Student Service Learning hours.


From annual community days & festivals to summer day camps, we have an opportunity for you! Visit pgparks.com/volunteer to view available opportunities.

Looking Ahead

From performances to history lessons to festivals, there are plenty of exciting M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation events and activities planned throughout the County as we commemorate Black History Month. Join us as we reflect, honor and commemorate the extraordinary achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history.


For more information, visit pgparks.com/blackhistory

We're searching for talented vocalists in Prince George's County! Teens, 10-18, are invited to audition for the Teen Vocal Showcase on Saturday, January 18. Selected participants will have a chance to perform and compete in the showcase at the historic Publick Playhouse on March 22.


Space is limited. Registration available at pgparks.com

Join us as we celebrate Women's History Month, a time to recognize and honor the contributions, achievements, and impact of women throughout history and in our lives today!


Throughout March celebrate the pioneers, leaders, and changemakers who have shaped our world for the better.

The Prince George's County Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) offers young people in the area valuable work experience during the summer months. This program is designed for teens and young adults, typically ages 14 to 22, to help them develop job skills and gain exposure to various career fields.


SYEP provides paid employment opportunities, along with job readiness skills. The 2025 application will be open March 1 - May 1, 2025. Please visit syep.mypgc.us for more information.

Work Where You Play with The Department of Parks & Recreation! Discover our exciting job opportunities, from health & wellness to park maintenance, aquatics, information technology and more! We have a position for you, so apply today! Visit our website to explore current openings here.

Stay connected with the latest happenings at the Department of Parks & Recreation! Our Live More, Play More weekly newsletter is packed with updates on upcoming community events, classes, workshops, and more! Subscribe here today!

Don't Forget To Follow Us On Social Media!

If you have questions about volunteering or

student-service learning hours contact

jo-ann.martinez@pgparks.com. For ideas for upcoming newsletter features, contact

courtney.harvey@pgparks.com.