Experienced Services Program
Program Funding
Annual program obligations reported to SAM.gov.
Funded Projects
Examples of what this program has supported.
1. Protecting Natural and Cultural Resources -- ESP participants played a key role in preserving historic places, caring for museum archives, improving documentation of archeological sites, and supporting environmental restoration. Their work included assessing damage from environmental incidents, preparing historic structures for preservation projects, and improving the treatment and long-term care of collections.
2. Strengthening Park Operations and Safety -- Many parks used ESP participants to support daily operations that keep parks open and safe. They performed road maintenance and snow removal, supported fire prevention and structural fire compliance, maintained remote weather stations, and provided heavy equipment expertise for erosion control and trail access improvements. These efforts increased safety for visitors, employees, and emergency responders.
3. Supporting Major National Initiatives -- ESP participants contributed to high‑visibility national projects, including efforts associated with America’s 250th anniversary. They provided project management, archival support, and coordination for events, ensuring that parks are prepared to engage the public in meaningful national commemorations.
4. Enhancing Administrative and Technical Capacity -- Parks also relied on ESP participants to strengthen internal functions such as Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) processing, travel and charge card compliance, GIS support, data tracking, and program analysis. These contributions helped parks meet federal requirements, reduce backlogs, and operate more efficiently.
Program Objective
The Experienced Services Program (ESP) provides support to the National Park Service (NPS) on natural and cultural resource conservation projects that enable the agency to carry out its mission. Special emphasis will be placed on projects that improve the maintenance of national park resources and enhance the visitor experience.
ESP participants will provide technical assistance and support to the NPS in the development and execution of projects that benefit the general public and provide support to NPS employees. This program will provide opportunities to qualified individuals 55 years of age and older, who have specific technical skills and abilities not available or underrepresented at current NPS staffing levels. The ESP participants will not replace or displace current NPS employees.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Nonprofit Organization
This program is limited to qualified non-profit organizations subject to 26 USC 501 c(3) of the tax code, and must be designated by the Secretary of Labor under Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965. Proof of establishment must be submitted with the application.
How to Apply
Award Procedure
Proposals received in response to announcements on grants.gov are reviewed on the basis of a competitive, merit based review process, and are rated in accordance with the evaluation criteria stated in the announcement. Awards may be made to the highest rated proposals based on the amount of funding available each year.
Varies depending on the type and complexity of the project. Further information will be available for each specific project at the time the funding opportunity announcement is posted on www.grants.gov and may be obtained by contacting the Program Manager listed as the point of contact. Generally 30 – 120 days.
Program details & compliance
Description
The Experienced Services Program (ESP) brings in highly experienced individuals—age 55 or older—to help the National Park Service carry out important work that benefits parks, public lands, and the public. Through time‑limited, project‑based assignments, participants provide specialized skills that support natural and cultural resource protection, facility maintenance, visitor services, planning, emergency preparedness, and other critical functions. Their expertise strengthens the agency’s ability to maintain safe, well‑cared‑for parks while expanding capacity where staffing or technical skill gaps exist.
Mission Categories
Primary: Labor Market Activity
Other categories:
Land and Forest ConservationRecreation
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
This program will provide opportunities to qualified individuals 55 years of age and older who have specific technical skills and abilities not available or underrepresented at current NPS staffing levels. The ESP participants will not replace or displace current NPS employees.
Required Documentation
Determined at the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) level.
Documentation demonstrating the organization’s proof of establishment under the Secretary of Labor Title V of the Older American Act of 1965, and proof of past performance in recruiting and provide employment opportunities for individuals 55 years of age and older.
Reporting & Compliance
Applicable 2 CFR 200 Subparts
- Subpart B — General Provisions
- Subpart C — Pre-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart D — Post-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart E — Cost Principles
- Subpart F — Audit Requirements