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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 21, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Late Natural Bridge State Park volunteer honored with Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Award

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: CREDIT REQUIRED Official Photo by Lori Massengill, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin)

Natural Bridge, Va. – Natural Bridge State Park is proud to announce that the late Bob Gilbert, longtime member and former president of the Friends of Natural Bridge State Park, has been posthumously honored with a 2025 Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Award in the senior volunteer category.

The award was presented to Gilbert’s wife and daughter by Governor Glenn Youngkin during a ceremony at the Executive Mansion.

Gilbert passed away on Feb. 18, 2025, leaving a legacy of service that created a lasting impact on Natural Bridge State Park and the surrounding community. As president of the Friends of Natural Bridge State Park, he led numerous initiatives that enhanced the park’s accessibility, preservation and community engagement.

His leadership helped establish the park’s Children’s Discovery Area and disc golf trail, creating opportunities for recreation and learning for generations to come.

In addition to his work with the park, Gilbert was a dedicated member of the Natural Bridge Ruritan Club and the Rockbridge County School Board, embodying a lifelong commitment to civic engagement and community betterment.

“Bob’s contributions to Natural Bridge State Park and the greater Rockbridge community are immeasurable,” said Park Manager Jim Jones. “This award is a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much of himself to ensure that others could enjoy and learn from the natural beauty of this special place.”

The Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Awards, presented annually by the Office of the Governor in partnership with Serve Virginia, recognize individuals and organizations who exemplify the spirit of service across the commonwealth.

To learn more about the awards, go to https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2025/november/name-1071312-en.html.

For more information about Natural Bridge State Park, visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-bridge.

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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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