Volunteer Spotlight & Highlights

Mimi Searle started with the Environmental Lands Division in April 2002 when she became a Shell Key Twiner. Twiners protect the Bird Preservation Area (BPA) on Shell Key Preserve, which is located just north of Fort DeSoto Park. They assist the Division by helping to replace the signs and posts around the BPA and repairing the twine that delineates the BPA. In order to accomplish her job, Mimi spends long hours on hot sandy beaches. She also assists the Research Section by counting everything she sees in the environment: birds, sea turtles, other animals, and people. As a Twiner, Mimi Searles, has been a great asset to these efforts. When the new Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center was opened in December 2002, Mimi started volunteering once a week as a Docent. Mimi is so dedicated to the mission of the Weedon Island Preserve and that of the Cultural and Natural History Center itself, she is now working up to 3 shifts a week. She takes the public for tours around the center and answers any questions they might have concerning the construction and orientation of this remarkable facility, which incorporates Native American features into the unique architecture. Her eagerness to help in many projects though, shows her loyalty and unfailing support of Weedon Island Preserve. Mimi shines in her ability to connect with the public and to educate visitors of all ages about nature, culture and the Center.

Marjorie King is an inspiration to the staff she works with at Animal Services. She is in her 60’s, has overcome 2 bouts with cancer and is there religiously. Tracey Manemann, site coordinator states, “I could not possibly do my job without her, she is my right arm. She even makes herself available if she is needed at other times. She knows as much about this shelter as any employee, being here over 7 years. She deserves this recognition!” Marjorie really enjoys working with the staff at Animal Services. She especially enjoys the camaraderie, joking with one another. She is a morning person, so her three morning a week schedule works out well for her. Before becoming a Pinellas County volunteer, she used to drive with the Ochs of Clearwater. She had to take a leave of absence for major surgery. When she returned to work, she learned they were letting her go. Instead of sitting at hope, depressed, she decided to see where she could volunteer, use her love of animals, and make a difference. She takes great pride in matching the right dog to the potential adopting family at Animal Services. She knows the dogs’ personalities and can steer a family towards the right pet for them. Marjorie practices what she preaches at home too. She has 6 dogs – 2 shelties and 4 adult Pomeranians – as well as 4 puppies she will be selling. Marjorie teaches obedience training in her spare time. She offers her bargain priced services to patrons at animal services, feeling that a well trained dog is more likely to be a well loved pet. Before new pet owners leave she takes time to teach them the proper way to hold a leash and any other tips pertinent to their new pet.

Fall Events

Sean Ehrlich in an intern under Devesh Nirnul, Regional Urban Sustainability Agent, at Extension. He is enrolled in the IB program at his high school. He began by volunteering at the recent “Living Green Expo” and is now working on compiling the pledges received there into a database. Sean is also working on an application for a sustainability award through NACO.
Martha Gale has served 4 years as a 4-H Leader through Pinellas County Extension. She started working at the Ochs property and recently taught a sewing class to her 4-H’ers. “It is really fun to watch the kids learn”, she said.
Chuck Scaffidi, a 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, wears many hats in his service to the County. He is a Master Gardener at Extension, prepares their newsletter and serves as a Volunteer Site Coordinator for the Natural Resources Program.
Dan Shannon recently moved to the Communications Department from a 4 year stint at the Florida Botanical Gardens where he supported the wedding program. Dan now works closely with the Volunteer Services staff on several special projects.
Angela Wilson (Youth Volunteer), Richard Livingstone (Youth Mentor), Misty Evans (Youth Mentor), Jennifer Galiano (Youth Mentor), Sam Dunaway (Youth Volunteer), and Cheyenne Wiker (Youth Volunteer) practice a presentation they wrote in support of the “Teen Connection.” Their motto is “To Make the Best Better”. They spend their time in the 4-H Dept at Pinellas County Extension.
Susan Wolf, Craig Zeitlin and Jenna Mazzella work together as a special liaison team between Brooker Creek and the library system. Susan is one of Brooker’s original volunteers, coming aboard around their grand opening in 2004. Craig and Jenna joined the team this year.

Junior Docents Activity at Heritage Village more pictures
Florida African American Heritage Celebration volunteers more pictures
At the Extension Service they are helping to plant educational gardens at locations around the County
At Animal Services they are assisting with demonstrations on handling and caring for pets.
At the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum they are giving tours on the history of the early settlers on the beaches.

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