INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Volunteering at the Environmental Learning Center is rewarding and educational. It provides a sense of accomplishment by contributing to a local non-profit organization.
On Tuesday, Dec. 6 ELC’s volunteer coordinator, Nancy Puglio, is holding an Open House for those interested in learning more about volunteering. The format is informal. Anyone interested in hearing about volunteer opportunities may drop in ELC’s Entry Pavilion between the hours of 3 to 5 p.m.
Puglio will provide an overview about volunteering at the ELC and has arranged for ELC staff members and current volunteers to be on hand to describe the various needs and what the experience is like. The idea is to have one-on-one time with no commitment necessary.
A wide range of volunteer opportunities exist for both seasonal and year-round residents. For example, those interested in meeting people might enjoy volunteering in the Visitor Center greeting ELC’s patrons.
Others might want to go through a Nature Guide training in order to become knowledgeable and comfortable in leading guided nature walks on ELC’s 64-acre campus. Those who enjoy working in gardens and with their hands will find many opportunities in caring for the grounds.
ELC’s volunteers contribute over 4,000 hours annually. Puglio organizes a six-session Enrichment Training Program annually with monthly speakers on current topics. Continuing education of volunteers is an important investment at the ELC and one of many ways Puglio sees to volunteers being rewarded and recognized.
The Environmental Learning Center is a non-profit nature center offering year-round environmental education. Its campus is located north of Vero Beach off County road 510 at the west end of the Wabasso Bridge. The island campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop, and visitor center.
For more information, contact Nancy Puglio, at (772) 589-5050 or Nancy@DiscoverELC.org.