(February 24, 2015) Youngstown, N.Y. - Old Fort Niagara's corps of volunteers and re-enactors logged 35,011 hours at the historic landmark in 2014, which the Fort values at over $550,000 in comparable wages. On Saturday, March 7, at 9 a.m., the staff will honor and serve breakfast to its dedicated helpers at a Volunteer Recognition Breakfast. Current and interested volunteers are invited. Reservations are required: (716) 745-7611 ext. 221.

"Our volunteers are like family, and we are so grateful for their time and dedication," said Robert Emerson, Executive Director of Old Fort Niagara. "When you break down the 35,011 hours they logged last year, it's the equivalent of 16 additional staff members working 40-hour work weeks for an entire year. That is incredible. We serve this breakfast as one way to show our appreciation for the big impact they make on our organization."

 The morning's highpoint will be announcing the "Volunteer of the Year." Each year, the Fort chooses a volunteer whose dedication goes above and beyond the expected and who contributes time and talent in a variety of ways. This individual's name will be added to a plaque in the Fort's visitor center, which currently honors five others. New York State Senator Robert Ortt (62^nd District) will present the award at the breakfast.

People interested in becoming volunteers are invited to the breakfast where they can pick up an application and interact with staff and volunteers. New volunteers are needed to help with the annual Haunted Fortress to be held October 17 and 24, 2015. The success of this fundraiser relies heavily upon having a large and organized group of helpers. In addition, Old Fort Niagara offers a range of volunteer opportunities to appeal to many interests and abilities. These include: docent, visitor center docent, military interpreter, foodways interpreter, admissions, exhibits, special events, fundraising, marketing, and clothing repair. More details are available under the "Become a Volunteer" link at www.oldfortniagara.org.

Old Fort Niagara's staff will serve pancakes, eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, yogurt and granola, fresh fruit, juice, tea and coffee. Reservations are required; please call (716) 745-7611 ext. 221 to reserve a spot.

Old Fort Niagara (www.oldfortniagara.org) is located in Fort Niagara State Park in Youngstown, N.Y., which is 14 miles north of Niagara Falls via the Robert Moses Parkway North. The Fort opens at 9 a.m. daily and is open until 5 p.m. during the winter months. Admissions end at 4:30 p.m. Old Fort Niagara is a National Landmark and State Historic Site operated by the Old Fort Niagara Association (a not-for-profit organization) in cooperation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Like us on Facebook.