As we strive to make 2026 the largest-ever year of service, America250 wants to introduce you to individuals working to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Semiquincentennial.
Tom Medema started his career as a National Park Service volunteer and now serves as Associate Director for Interpretation, Education, Volunteers at the National Park Service. We asked Tom to share why he chooses to give and serve his community.
Responses edited for brevity.
How many years have you committed to public or military service?
I have been in public service since 1988, when I volunteered at Rocky Mountain National Park while attending graduate school.
What inspired you to serve?
The opportunity to work in a spectacular place like Rocky Mountain National Park, and share my passion for protecting and enjoying America’s public lands, one of the greatest rights given to citizens of any country in the world.
What does service mean to you?
It means understanding the needs of others, as well as the needs of our protected natural and cultural heritage, and then helping build a connection between those things. It means informing, engaging, and inspiring people to learn from our venerable historic sites or to build a happier, healthier life exploring and playing in the great outdoors.
Why do you give back?
The National Parks are a gift, a part of our “common” wealth as a nation that belongs to EVERYONE. For me to be able to be a part of extending those benefits, to introducing them to people from all walks of life, to ensuring that these incredible experiences remain available for future generations is what motivates me to keep serving, whether through my job or in my personal volunteer time. Even after retirement, I will continue to volunteer for the National Park Service for all of these reasons.
What is your hope for the next generation when it comes to service and giving?
I hope that every generation will continue to seek and exhibit empathy, both for others like and unlike them and also for the planet we share. I believe that empathy inspires civic action and a desire to give of one’s time, finances, or other public service.
America's Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
This contest invites students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to travel for field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.