Voices of Volunteers: Lynn Addington
Voices of Volunteers: Lynn Addington
In celebration of Women's History Month, we are sharing the stories of some of the amazing women on the National Mall - our volunteers!
With their unique backgrounds and perspectives, they enliven the National Mall and enrich visitors' experiences. These women share why they volunteer, what the experience means to them, and highlight some of the women who inspire them, both on and off the Mall!
Lynn Addington joined the National Mall volunteer team when the Eisenhower Memorial opened in September, and she has been an engaged member ever since, participating in volunteer-led interpretation and research teams. Lynn's experience as an educator is so useful in creating interpretive experiences that are engaging and accessible to people of multiple ages and backgrounds. Her favorite part of the Eisenhower Memorial is the young Ike statue because the statue is life size rather than heroic size. Lynn says, "When I meet visitors – especially families – I like to highlight this statue, as both the size and his age make Eisenhower seem more approachable. It’s also a great way to start a conversation about his early years and education."
Trust for the National Mall (TNM): What have been your experiences with the volunteer community?
Lynn Addington (LA): Volunteering at the Eisenhower Memorial has provided me with the opportunity to meet a bunch of terrific people, including the NPS Rangers and other volunteers. Even though the Eisenhower Memorial volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds, we all share a common interest in not just giving back through service but doing so via NPS opportunities on the National Mall. The Eisenhower Memorial volunteers are a supportive community. Everyone has been generous in sharing their knowledge and experience. I’ve learned a great deal from my colleagues, including insights for how best to engage with visitors, information about the design of the memorial, and historical facts about President Eisenhower.
I also have enjoyed having the opportunity to collaborate with other volunteers and NPS Rangers in committees that are researching and drafting interpretation materials for the Memorial.
TNM: Why did you start volunteering at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial?
LA: I live fairly close to the Mall and watched the construction of the Eisenhower Memorial since its groundbreaking. I’m also a huge fan of our National Parks and have visited dozens across the country. When I saw the call for DDEM volunteers, I immediately signed up to support this Memorial in my backyard! It’s exciting to be part of a brand-new memorial – and only the fifth Presidential memorial on the National Mall. I also like the fact that we are partnering with NPS Rangers to create interpretative tours for the Eisenhower Memorial. It’s terrific to be part of a collaborative effort and support NPS.
TNM: Women’s History Month: What women in your own life inspire you?
LA: My mom! She’s a retired teacher and instilled in me the importance of education. She also inspires me to be a life-long learner. Volunteering at the Eisenhower Memorial is a great opportunity to do both, as I have been continuing to learn about Eisenhower and US history during this period in order to help inform visitors. I’m particularly interested in ways to engage our younger visitors and find connections to spark their interest in President Eisenhower and U.S. history. My mom was so excited about my decision to volunteer at the Eisenhower Memorial that she gave me the “IKE” pin she received as part of her school’s student presidential campaign program.
