As a docent I can rightfully say that I received well thought-out training and other preparation to enable me to share with the visitors the early history of the early California rancho period and of the Dana personages. I enjoy talking to people and they received the benefit of what I learned from books, lectures, discussions with other docents and the enthusiasm that we all shared. We have living history days and local elementary school students visits that the Dana Adobe conducts for the purpose of educating the public. I have been a docent for about 10 years and it has been a pleasure to work with like-minded people.
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The organization has really taken off these last couple of years. The volunteers are more organized with training and direction from the leaders. The organization shows that it cares for its volunteers and acknowledges each person's contribution. I feel most welcome here.
Review from Guidestar
Hello,
My name is Len Hoskins. I’ve been a volunteer at the Dana Adobe for almost twenty years. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.
It was my good fortune to show up while the Adobe was in the midst of its restoration process and was able participate in many projects that were required to bring it to completion as you see it today.
Since then I have chosen to undertake the maintenance of the grounds as well as other odd jobs that should arise. This is not glamorous work such as being a docent, or working in historic collections but it is perfect for me. There is always plenty to do and every week there is a feeling of accomplishment. In addition, the many friends and acquaintances I’ve made are irreplaceable.
I’m looking forward to many more years at Dana as well as many more friends and accomplishments
Len Hoskins,
Dana Adobe Volunteer
I've been a volunteer for DANA for nine years and I can see I'll be involved for many more. Why? Because at last I've found a place that is key to California's Rancho period history whose story must be shared with all Californians. DANA is a place in the Nipomo community for people with a variety of interests and talents to invest time and treasure because the preservation of the site involves the preservation of the stories of all who were here, all who passed through, and all who imagined what this golden state could become.
As a retired teacher, I find myself still instructing children, but about local and state history and about nature. I'm outdoors, with great volunteers, and valued for my contributions.
Review from Guidestar
My wife and I love working at the Rancho Nipomo Heritage Park. We have been involved for nearly 5 years and have seen great advances in the restoration of the Adobe and are excited about plans for the Visitor Center and Heritage Park. This is a venue that Nipomo can be proud of. Many visitors will come in the next years and they will be enriched by what they will see and hear.
We encourage everyone to come by for a visit and to get involved in our work.
Bob & Rena Weiger
Nipomo, CA
Review from Guidestar
I joined the Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos when the group was organized. I am proud of being involved with helping them save the old adobe, and educate school children about California history.
Review from Guidestar
I am a docent for the Dana Adobe, an historical home in Nipomo dating back to the 1840's. As a retired school teacher, I enjoy helping with the educational field trips made by the local schools. To be able to make history "come alive" is exciting for all who visit and students get to experience "hands-on" what life was like on the rancho 150 years ago. The general public may visit also in the afternoons on weekends and attend concerts and lectures throughout the summer. This is a great place to volunteer and there are many opportunities to get involved.
Review from Guidestar
I just finished hosting a school field trip to the Adobe. We had 75 third/fourth grade students and five stations for them to experience rancho life in California around 1850. From the restored adobe to tour, to the delicious aroma of tortillas cooking, I am impressed by the quality and committment of this organization to educate the public and the young. What a treasure hidden in Nipomo! Come and tour the adobe on a weekend and personally experience what a dedicated group of volunteers can accomplish! And there is more to come as the planned Heritage Park begins construction soon!
Review from Guidestar
When I joined the DANA Board in 2011, the organizations was operating more as a small local non-profit, with a more Mom and Pop organization. In April of 2011, receiving a $2,998,00 grant to build a Nature Educational Facility, the Board began to grow in all ways, and direct its functioning to a much m ore professional level. Since that time, the Board and the organization have continued on that path and are becoming a well-run organization, in the process of plans to build our facility and have it become a "star location" in San Luis Obispo County.
Review from Guidestar
Participating at DANA as a Docent gives me the opportunity to learn more about local history, the area's relevance in the history of California, and gives me a chance to try to make history interesting for the young.
Review from Guidestar