Volunteer Spotlight, Bill and Betty Villanova

Alafia River State Park

Bill and Betty began volunteering with Florida State Parks about 20 years ago. Originally from West Virginia and Wisconsin, the first Florida State Parks that welcomed them were Homossassa Springs and Blue Springs State Park. While staying at Blue Springs State Park, a volunteer coordinator approached them to share with them information on how to become volunteers, and the rest is history.

From mechanical duties, to camp host duties and beyond, Bill and Betty always go the extra mile to provide service with a smile.

Bill and Betty enjoy hiking at different parks and experiencing the different natural communities present in Florida State Parks. Through volunteering, they have been able to share knowledge and experiences with people from all over the country and even the world! Bill and Betty’s philosophy is to “leave a place in better shape than when you found it”, and they are making sure they leave their mark at Alafia River State Park.