The call has gone out folks. Applications are now being taken for the 2014 @American_Latino Expedition, a contest designed to engage diverse audiences and inspire exploration and stewardship of America’s national parks, all the while highlighting American Latino culture, history, and contributions across the National Park System.

Sponsored by the National Park Foundation through its American Latino Heritage Fund, successful applications will focus on education, park stewardship, outdoor recreation, careers with the National Park Service, and more. Participants will meet directly with National Park Service staff. Expenses, including air travel, lodging, and most on-site tour and excursion fees, will be covered by the National Park Foundation and Expedition partners. Expedition participants will also visit a local REI store to be outfitted for their trip.

Individuals are invited to apply at www.alhf.org/alex through July 11, 2014, and can follow the hashtag #ALEx14 for updates.

Through a partnership with Aramark, the award winning food and hospitality partner for national and state parks and other leading leisure and cultural attractions across the country, leading outdoor gear and apparel retailer REI, and Columbia Sportswear, ALHF is issuing a national call for social media leaders to apply for the opportunity to participate in a national park adventure to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.

“We’re thrilled that our @American_Latino Expedition will once again give people the opportunity to experience our national parks, explore their connections to American Latino heritage and culture, and share their adventures along the way with their friends and family,” said Neil Mulholland, president and CEO of the National Park Foundation. “We are grateful for Aramark, REI, and Columbia Sportswear’s continued support as we work together to inspire more people to visit, enjoy, and support their national parks.”

“National parks preserve and convey exceptional stories about our nation’s heritage, and each visitor brings their own distinct cultural background and family traditions whenever they experience these treasured areas,” said Grand Teton Superintendent David Vela. “Through the 2014 @American_Latino Expedition and its social media bloggers, we are poised to inspire and educate Latino communities about the relevancy and value of national parks, and provide a journey to explore their heritage and contributions found within the National Park System."

Established in 2011, the American Latino Heritage Fund of the National Park Foundation works to improve the representation of American Latino heritage in, visitors to, and the long-term stewardship of America’s national parks. ALHF has provided significant support for the nominations of historic places including César E. Chávez National Monument in California and Casa Dra. Concha Meléndez Ramírez in Puerto Rico.

To learn more about the work of the American Latino Heritage Fund and how to support these important efforts, visit www.ALHF.org.