This document provides information for a Trailblazer & TAILblazer training with the Stark County Park District. It discusses the roles and responsibilities of Trailblazers and TAILblazers who volunteer to provide assistance and education to the public along trail systems. Requirements are outlined for both positions, including a minimum of 20 volunteer hours annually for Trailblazers and certification for TAILblazer dogs. A brief history of the Stark County Park District is also given, noting it was established in 1967 and originally managed two small parks totaling 31.55 acres.

1. WELCOME!
Trailblazer & TAILblazer
Training
Please join using your camera
if you can!

2. • Welcome & Introductions
• Ice Breaker
• Trailblazing 101
• Stark County Park District Information
• Share the Trail
• Working with Stark Parks Rangers
• Reporting Hazards
• Logging Hours/Communication
• Cell Phone Use

3. The Trailblazer is a trained representative of the
Stark County Park District (SCPD), who will
provide a presence along the trail systems in
Stark County; giving education, assistance, and
information to the public.
The TAILblazer team is a trained representative
of the Stark County Park District (SCPD), who will
provide a presence along the trail systems in
Stark County; modeling positive pet and owner
behavior, offering assistance and information to
the public.
Mission Statements

4. Job Descriptions
• Trailblazers are trained volunteers who provide a
presence in the parks, along Stark Parks’ trails, and at
events; while on foot, bicycle, or horse. TAILblazers are
teamed with their Canine Good Citizen certified dogs
• Trailblazers are encouraged to be in the parks and on the
trails every season of the year. Parks and trail times are
during open park hours and up to the volunteer.
• Trailblazers act as goodwill ambassadors and positive
role models for park users. They’re also the eyes and ears
of Stark Parks for our various functions. *(Marketing, Public Safety
and Operations, etc.)

5. Requirements
Trailblazer:
• Physically able to be in the park and on the trails during all
types of weather for extended periods of time
• Attend all required trainings and updates
• Have good communication skills
• Able to Commit – 20 hours of volunteer service annually
TAILblazers above and:
• Dog must be:
• American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen
• Therapy Dogs International (TDI) or
• Pet Partners’ formerly Delta
• Dog must have current county license and Rabies Vaccine
• Owner must show proof of dog liability insurance

6. Stark County Park District History
The Stark County Park District was formed by
the County Commissioners on
February 17, 1967
At that time the District was given
responsibility for two parks totaling 31.55
acres: Faircrest Park in Canton Township and
Lock 4 park in Lawrence Township