Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization that assists the National Park Service in its mission to preserve and protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park by raising funds and public awareness, and providing volunteers for needed projects. Established in 1993, Friends of the Smokies is proud to provide $1 million+ annually for important projects and programs to improve the visitor experience in one of America's iconic national parks.