Segment 1: David Brooks talks about The Friends at St. Andrews State Park nonprofit
The Mix
On The Mix, David Brooks who is the Vice President of the Friends of St. Andrews State Park, joined Caleb Jordan and Dana Erskine to talk about the nonprofit and some exciting news within their organization. The Friends of St. Andrews State Park is celebrating its 30 year anniversary this year, and the Friends members work to support the Florida State Parks mission “to provide resource-based recreation while preserving, interpreting and restoring natural and cultural resources.” They have been actively assisting the Florida Park Service with this mission since 1991.
David says that they just had a big fundraising opportunity to rebuild a playground after Hurricane Michael came through and destroyed the one that was there before. After some contributions to The Friends, they put in an application for grants, and through that, they received a $96,000 donation from the St. Joe Community Foundation. He says it’s a great opportunity for families and children in the community.
Membership Opportunities
David spoke about the different levels of memberships including General, Contributor, Patron, Benefactor, and Altruist. Through their membership’s there are opportunities to volunteer for events like Iron Man, David says. The pass also includes a free 12-day pass for up to 8 people in a single-vehicle. This will allow you to get into the park for 12 free calendar days (any days of your choosing) while also contributing directly to The Friends of St. Andrews State Park.
General Membership – $35
Contributor – $100- $249
Patron $250 – $499
Benefactor – $500 – $999
Altruist – $1,000
Segment 2: David Brooks talks about where donations go.
Where Does Your Donation Go?
David says that all donations made to the Friends of St. Andrews State Park through either memberships or fundraising, stay in the park only. Some things they have used the money for would be a UTV to patrol the beach and to respond to emergency situations, an Interpretation Center that houses displays wildlife, the environment, and a saltwater aquarium, and resources for families camping in the park.
If you are interested in volunteering with the Friends of St. Andrews State Park to help with outside activities, office help, bookkeeping, beach cleanup, fundraising, and other activities visit www.friendsofstandrews.org. This can also be a great opportunity to get children involved as families are welcome to volunteer.
