Volunteer Spotlight, John and Terri Shea
John and Terri Shea
San Marcos de Apalache State Park
John and Terri Shea are new to Florida State Parks starting service as resident volunteers at San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park in December 2019. John grew up in New York City, moving to Florida at nine years of age. Terri lived in Ohio and moved to Florida when she was 18.
The couple met in Florida, lived in Pinellas Park for 30 years and then lived in Greensboro, N.C., for six years. A full-time RV lifestyle was the next move.
As children, both liked learning about history. Over the years, they have discovered that being able to travel to experience historical sites is even more enjoyable. They have enjoyed learning the history of San Marcos. The couple loves the beautiful park grounds, finding it peaceful and full of wildlife.
Typical volunteer duties for John include upkeep of the grounds and working on improvement projects. Terri works in the museum office, greeting guests and assisting park staff with responsibilities as needed.
John and Terri find meeting visitors and working with a great group of people the most rewarding part of their volunteer assignment. They have fallen in love with the area and the fact that there is so much to explore and learn about. They find that the park site for their RV is great and they appreciate the seclusion that the park offers. “This is our first volunteer opportunity and we are enjoying the combination of down time to explore while still being able to provide valuable time for service to Florida State Parks. We are looking forward to many future volunteer adventures.”