Each year, OneOC recognizes volunteers for their dedicated service to our community through the Spirit of Volunteerism Awards.
OC Parks and Laguna Canyon Foundation are so grateful for each and every one of our volunteers, working together to preserve and protect this land that we love.
At a luncheon last week, OneOC recognized four of our own.
Kate Clark has served more than one thousand hours in her eleven years of volunteering. An excellent writer and editor, Kate has helped with many publications including a native plant guide, trail guides and the Dog-friendly Parks Guide. She is a regular at the Nix Nature Center, welcoming park guests. Kate assists with research and data management. Her attention to details is a critical component of preserving and protecting our beautiful wilderness.
Paul Doyle, a great steward of our open space, volunteers in many areas. In 2011, Paul started working in the native plant nursery, collecting and planting seed, transplanting the young plants and eventually planting them in the park. Paul also helps lead public Keep It Wild events in which participants can volunteer their time to weed, water, plant and collect trash. Paul’s hard work and leadership surely helps improve the health of native habitat.
Warren Haines volunteers every week at the Nix Nature Center teaching visitors about the park and its trails. Warren is a member of the Wildlife Camera Team, a very important effort in protecting our wilderness. Since most park wildlife avoids human contact, the photos from the wildlife cameras are key evidence of the presence of bobcat, deer, coyote and other native fauna. His contagious laugh and commitment to the land is an inspiration to us all.
Kendra Jones, almost 11 years ago, joined the trail crew and soon was recruited to help with restoration efforts. Kendra has always been interested in everything about the park, taking time to learn about geology, biology and native plants. Her commitment to continuous learning certainly helps in her leadership role for public events. You will see Kendra out on the trails frequently; her love for the wilderness is clear.
The OC Parks and Laguna Canyon Foundation staff