Historical Society needs new volunteers to help keep island history alive
The Boca Grande Historical Society is looking for history lovers, Boca Grande lovers, people who are bored, people with a story to tell, people who like to help others, people who want to know things … the list goes on. They want as many people as possible to become part of the fun of knowing and sharing the history of Boca Grande and Gasparilla Island.
Historical Society Executive Director Crystal Diff and Administrative Director Kim Kyle are putting out the word that the Historical Society is the place to use those talents, interests and spare minutes.
“As a volunteer, you can learn more about the island you love, or teach us all the stories you know!” said Diff. “We’re looking for volunteers to help foster our island’s vast culture, while having fun and meeting new friends in the process. History spans so many different topics and we’re sure to find something that satisfies anyone’s interests.”
Volunteers also give back to the people of Boca Grande by keeping the history and culture fresh and available for people to learn and enjoy. Diff said the following are some of the ways volunteers can contribute:
• Greet and guide visitors
• Research topics for exhibits and programs
• Conduct oral history interviews
• Plan programs and events
• Raise funds and write grants
• Scan and enter information into the archives
• Market the Society through such things as fliers and social media.
If a person has something else they wish to contribute, Diff and Kyle are open to new ideas.
The Boca Grande Historical Society & History Center is committed to enhancing people’s understanding of the history of Gasparilla Island and its surrounding area. Its goal is to provide personally rewarding opportunities to learn about the remarkable people and events that shaped the area’s past.
“Through our various educational activities, the Society seeks to put the present into better perspective by improving our sense of identity and continuity with history’s unfolding panorama,” Kyle said. “We are dedicated to the collection and preservation of memorabilia, and we offer our members and the public numerous ways to become involved in researching our local history.”
If you are interested in being a volunteer with the Historical Society, contact the office at 170 Park Avenue or email crystal@bocagrandehistoricalsociety.com.
