MacArthur Beach State Park hosted the Florida State Parks District 5 Volunteer Appreciation Day where two of the park’s volunteers were recognized for their achievements and dedication to MacBeach.
The first volunteer recognized was Stephanie Grant, who has committed more than 10,000 hours to MacBeach. Ms. Grant has been with MacBeach since May 2001. She has volunteered in many different roles, including leading nature and turtle walks, facilitating award-winning education programs, and as a docent in the nature center. She was presented with the 20 Years of Service Award.
“Stephanie is an inspiration, her dedication, knowledge and commitment to MacBeach is unsurpassed. Her love for nature comes through in her volunteering especially when teaching the next generation during our education programs,” Veronica Frehm, executive director of the Friends, said in a statement. “We are grateful for her 20 years of service, and we are honored she is part of our team.”
The second individual recognized for their accomplishments was Alicia Bickel, who received the Youth Volunteer of the Year Award. Alicia is 15 and has been involved with MacBeach since age 5. She has assisted the park in beach cleanups, as well as become a certified sea turtle nest excavator, enabling her to participate in the Citizen Science Nest Excavation Project. As a member of Junior Friends, she has accumulated over 75 hours of community service and continues to demonstrate to the community that one is never too young to take part in a cause and make a difference. “Alicia is a remarkable young woman, and an integral part of our Junior Friends Program, not only did she attend every meeting but recruited several friends as well,” Ms. Frehm said. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her.”
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is situated on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Lake Worth Lagoon.
https://palmbeach.floridaweekly.com/articles/macarthur-beach-state-park-honors-volunteers/