Volunteer Spotlight, 2021 Volunteer Awards at John D. MacArthur Beach
Volunteer Ellie Bickel
2021 Youth Volunteer of the Year Award for Natural Resources
Alicia “Ellie” Bickel has been a regular visitor at John D. MacArthur Beach State Park since she was 5 years old. Since then, she has discovered a love for preservation and protection of natural resources.
Over four years as a Junior Friend through the park’s citizen support organization, Ellie has accrued more than 100 service hours. She has perfect attendance, having never missed a Junior Friends meeting.
Even with the switch to virtual meetings and events, Ellie was enthusiastic and dedicated to the mission of aiding the park. She was instrumental in creating new virtual events to connect with visitors and make the same impact virtually as they would have in person.
She regularly encourages her friends to join Junior Friends and participate in service projects around the park. She is heavily involved in an array of activities, including sea turtle nest excavation, monthly beach cleanups and bird surveys.
The unique connection that Ellie has to the park and her level of commitment to learn about its natural resources are unmatched.
Congratulations to Ellie on her award. Her volunteer efforts are appreciated.
Stephanie Grant
20 Years of Service Award
Stephanie has volunteered in many different roles: nature walk guide, turtle nesting walk guide, nature center docent, NatureScaping event helper and education assistant.
However, by far, her favorite volunteer moments are those when she can teach others.
Congratulations to Stephanie on this award. Her volunteer efforts are appreciated.