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Friends of Six Mile Cypress Slough Win Service Award
Sep 12, 2007 Media Release
The Friends of Six Mile Cypress Slough win State Voluntary Service Award The Friends of Six Mile Cypress Slough, were awarded the Group Voluntary Service Award from The Florida Recreation and Park Association, a statewide non-profit organization representing local government parks and recreation interests in the State of Florida. Formed in 2001, the Friends of Six Mile Cypress Slough has the purpose of assisting the Six Mile staff in educational efforts at the preserver, supporting development and operation of the Interpretive Center, and to promote special events and projects to enhance the preserve. One of the greatest successes of the Friends is their tireless work to raise funds for the construction of a nationally recognized, LEED certified Interpretive Center, which will be one that has minimal negative effects on the environment. Their efforts have raised over $500,000 through the formation of productive partnerships in the business community. In 2006, the Friends contributed 3,394 hours of volunteer time in the first quarter of 2007. They work mostly on the weekends, speaking to about 4,000 visitors. Awards Chair Terri Owen stated, "They provide outreach to schools and civic organizations. Every community should be so fortunate to have access to this kind of dedication." Their nominator wrote "All they ask is that you fall in love with the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and help preserve it for present and future generations." Volunteers such as The Friends, dedicate millions of hours each year to parks and recreation agencies across the State of Florida. President of The Friends, Joyce Sanders and her husband Bill, were on hand to accept the award at the Association's August 30, 2007 Awards Ceremony. |