Conservation Foundation Honors 2021 Volunteer of the Year and Conservation Partner of the Year

October 29, 2021 – Sarasota

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast recently honored their 2021 Conservation Partner of the Year and Volunteer of the Year at the organization’s Annual Conservation Reception. Rob Harlan and Susan Lowy Harlan received the Conservation Partner of the Year award for their support of Conservation Foundation’s work over the past 14 years. Rich and Jane Huhn received the Volunteer of the Year award for their ongoing commitment to maintaining the beauty of Bay Preserve.

Since their first introduction to Conservation Foundation, the Harlans’ impact has been substantial and far-reaching. Their desire to fund both operational and budget-relieving projects provides tools and resources to Conservation Foundation, supporting the organization’s growing staff, helping the Next Gen Conservation program expand and thrive, and increasing the community’s knowledge of Conservation Foundation’s mission, programs, and location.
The Huhns’ meticulous diligence in keeping Bay Preserve beautiful and welcoming to all provides capacity for Conservation Foundation, allowing land protection and stewardship staff to save and maintain more land in Southwest Florida. Together the Huhns have donated over 100 hours of grounds maintenance labor, creating a tremendous ripple effect throughout the organization.

“Our work would not be possible without the support of our community,” notes Christine Johnson, president of Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. “Land conservation is a complex process and individuals like Rob, Susan, Rich, and Jane provide us with resources and capacity to save more land and reach more people. We are incredibly grateful for their continued commitment to conservation and generosity of both time and resources.”

The Annual Conservation Reception was held at Conservation Foundation’s Bay Preserve headquarters in Osprey. In addition to recognizing Conservation Partner of the Year and Volunteer of the Year, the event also celebrates the organization’s annual achievements made possible with the support of their dedicated conservation community.