This project was conducted as part of the CIS 650 (Applying Diversity Leadership Theories and Praxis) class during summer 2023 that involved assessing the web information (and more) provided by the Kingsley Plantation property of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve located in Jacksonville, Florida with a focus on African American populations. On this page, I explain the agency I am working with. Kingsley Plantation is a part of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve under the National Park Service. The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is one of the preserves that promotes historic preservation and education with recreation in nature. TIMU makes up 46,000 acres. Out of those 46,000 acres, Kingsley Plantation makes up 1,000 acres. There are 6 rangers/guides who work at Kingsley Plantation. These 6 rangers rotate between 2 parks within the preserve. Usually, there is 2-3 rangers at Kingsley Plantation each day. The services provided at Kingsley Plantation include tours of the grounds, an audio tour, an annual Kingsley Heritage Celebration, school group tours, and curriculum materials. Of these services, school tour programs, curriculum materials, and the audio tour align with the analysis of approaching African American visitors.
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is meant to serve all. The agency gets visitors from Jacksonville, other states, or other countries. Although there is information on the number of visitors, there is no statistical data on the visitors' demographics. The preserve makes a point to address the needs of those we serve and creating partnerships with the diverse communities the preserve represents. For example, there is an ongoing partnership with Groundwork Jax’s Green Team Youth Corps. The Green Team Youth Corps is a group of young students from diverse groups who participate in different outdoor activities and community service opportunities. Supporting communities through partnership opportunities, open communication, and varying outreach programs solidifies the connection between our local community and our organization.
The National Park Service states their mission as: “ The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.”. NPS tells the story of America from a natural and cultural perspective. The story of America is one of diversity and inclusion, thus it’s an integral part of their mission. NPS has an Office of Relevancy, Diversity, and Inclusion that is meant to provide national-level direction and leadership and strategies to address RDI efforts that all of their parks’ practice. Some of these strategies The Office of RDI practice is spreading awareness and dialogue, empowering employees through Employee Resource Groups, and working in collaboration with NPS offices, programs, and partners.