Volunteer Spotlight, Karen Blount & Dave Parvis

Karen and Dave are perfect examples of what Lovers Key is looking for in volunteers. They possess great attitudes, big smiles and cheerful personalities no matter what job is put in front of them. Whether cleaning restrooms, emptying garbage cans or rebuilding boardwalks, they always put smiles on the faces of those around them.

Karen started her volunteering with the National Park Service in 2016 at Greenbelt Campground in Washington, D.C., Big Cypress National Preserve and Indiana Dunes National Park.

Dave joined the fun in 2018 when they started volunteering in Florida State Parks. Besides working at Lovers Key State Park, they have volunteered at John Pennekamp and Fort Zachary Taylor. Traveling and working is what they love, and it shows.

Dave loves woodworking and Karen has learned many skills from him. As a team, they have been a huge asset with building projects around Lovers Key. From building new trash-can enclosures to repairing bridges and overlooks, just turn them loose with some power tools and you're guaranteed quality work. They are rightfully proud of the cedar shake work they did on the sign at our bayside picnic area. 

They have built lasting relationships with other resident volunteers, visitors and rangers. They are people who love the outdoors and enjoy preserving our valuable natural resources. They have truly become part of the Lovers Key State Park family.