Ron Henkel selected Volunteer of the Month June 2010

Why did you join Surfrider?

I joined Surfrider Foundation so I could become more involved with improving the beaches in my hometown and my neighboring communities.  There were just too many unchecked developments and activities.  As an individual I felt powerless, but as an avid surfer and beach lover I wanted to join a group that would help to support the beach community when needed.  I did not feel like I was making a difference as an individual.

What are your favorite Surfrider activities?

My favorite Surfrider activities include the meetings (believe it or not), educating the public, beach cleanups, and last but not least, movie festivals!

What can you recommend to others on how to be more Ocean Friendly?

Being more ocean friendly is about choices. I try to do the little things daily.  For example, recycling is an easy first step and reusing goes widely unpublicized but just using a reusable coffee mug is a great first start. Finally, every time I am at the beach I make a point to pick up some trash.

Why should others get involved in Surfrider?

People should get involved with Surfrider Foundation because it truly is the right thing to do.  If you love the beach, why not join an organization whose sole purpose is to protect the beach environment.  I believe we all have a responsibility to ensure that all generations have a safe, clean environment to enjoy.

Julie Selected for Volunteer of the March 2010

Why did you join Surfrider?

I’m a life long water baby. Growing up on the Gulf Coast, I’ve seen first hand the way the population changed over the last 40 years and the impact those changes have on our coasts. When I learned through Gulf Surf Forum that a Surfrider Chapter was to start up here, I jumped at the chance to become a member and join up with like minded folks to keep our special coasts healthy.

What are your favorite Surfrider activities?

My favorite activities are outreach events where we have the free opportunity to educate the public about Surfrider Foundation. For a healthy chapter to thrive its important to bring in new faces and fresh ideas.

What can you recommend to others on how to be more Ocean Friendly?

The simplest thing anyone, of any age, can do is have zero impact on the environment. When you visit the beaches and waterways leave it cleaner than you found it.  Pick up the trash you see as you walk the coasts or surf the waves. Please leave the sealife where you find it, like don’t dig up sand dollars and bring them to shore, don’t harass manatees, dolphins, turtles and don’t feed the seabirds.

Why should others get involved in Surfrider?

Surfrider Foundation is a well structured, ocean friendly organization. The  Foundation is tens of thousands of members strong world wide. We are a young at heart population, active and healthy. We have fun while being serious advocates for earth’s water environments. Join Surfrider Foundation and know that you’ve joined the best.