Conservancy celebrates volunteers’ donation of more than 430,000 hours, names Volunteer of the Year during Annual Recognition Breakfast
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida recently recognized its volunteers during its Annual Recognition Breakfast on April 12, hosted and sponsored by Vi at Bentley Village in Naples. Every day at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, volunteers go above and beyond to ensure the conservation of Southwest Florida’s water, land, wildlife and future. From documenting new animal species, to aiding in the rescue and rehabilitation of pelicans and other wildlife, volunteers at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida have donated more than 436,916 hours in the past year, an equivalent of more than $1.5 million in staff time.
“From the day-to-day professionalism – a smile at the front Gazebo or Welcome Center – to providing support of our groundbreaking scientific research, each volunteer can make a positive impact,” said Rob Moher, president and CEO of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. “Each helps to support the work the organization does each day. We are so grateful to our outstanding corps of volunteers.”
During a surprise ceremony, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida recognized a long-time volunteer, naming Bob Schultheis the 2017 Volunteer of the Year.
“Bob Schultheis is an incomparable member of our volunteer team,” said Chanel McGregor, volunteer coordinator for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. “His commitment to the Conservancy and passion for our mission knows no bounds. We are so pleased to select him as our 2017 Volunteer of the Year.”
After moving to the Naples area from St. Louis, Missouri in 2009, Schultheis began volunteering at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, serving all areas of its mission. Since then, he has generously donated a total of 5,465 hours to the organization.
“The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s mission is one I am passionate about,” Schultheis said. “It is vital to protect and maintain Southwest Florida for future generations to come. I am honored to volunteer and contribute to this amazing organization.”
McGregor says as season winds down, many Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteers head north.
“We need volunteer support throughout the year to help continue our work. Please consider becoming a Conservancy volunteer today,” said McGregor.
A variety of volunteer opportunities are available for ages 16 and older. Those interested in supporting the Conservancy of Southwest Florida as a volunteer may apply online at www.conservancy.org/volunteer.
About the Conservancy of Southwest Florida:
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a not-for-profit environmental protection organization with a 50 year history focused on the issues impacting the water, land wildlife and future of Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. The Conservancy accomplishes this mission through the combined efforts of its experts in the areas of environmental science, policy, education and wildlife rehabilitation. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida, world-class Nature Center and von Arx Wildlife Hospital are headquartered in Naples, Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, south of the Naples Zoo off Goodlette-Frank Road. Learn more about the Conservancy’s work and how to support the quality of life in Southwest Florida www.conservancy.org.
