Tourism Cares Partners with Plimoth Plantation for Massive Volunteer Effort

Nearly 300 volunteers from the travel and tourism industries gathered in Plymouth on Friday, Sept. 27, for a full day of sanding, painting, weeding and even building an authentic 17th century timber palisade.

The effort was coordinated by Tourism Cares, a Canton-based nonprofit that brings tourism industry professionals together to preserve travel destinations. This year, Tourism Cares teamed up with Plimoth Plantation to complete projects at the Mayflower II, Burial Hill and finish a 500-foot stretch of timber wall surrounding the 1627 English Village.

Aside from organizing the volunteer effort, Tourism Cares provided a $10,000 grant to Plimoth Plantation for tools, material and ongoing maintenance.

"Plymouth is this iconic place," said Mike Rea, Tourism Cares CEO.

The day of volunteering was proceeded by months of planning; first selecting Plymouth as a site and then coordinating the individual projects. Rea explained that Tourism Cares seeks locations that have significance and importance, but need support.

Plimoth Plantation fit the criteria.

Volunteers at the various sites came from all areas of the tourism industry. The event was also supported by Plymouth residents and local sponsors.

"It's very much a community effort," said Rea.

Read more about the volunteer efforts below:

• Volunteers Sand and Paint Interior of Mayflower II
• Authentic Timber Palisade Replaced at Plimoth Plantation
• Volunteers Remove Invasive Species at Plimoth Plantation
• Poplar Bark Removed from Wampanoag Homesite Wetu