Volunteer Spotlight, BJ Whitley
BJ Whitley
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Having grown up on a farm in North Carolina means that BJ Whitley is used to working outside and battling with the elements. So, when opportunity knocked, BJ did not hesitate to become a volunteer at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. She learned about the position through friends who were already working at the park. Being a part of such a great team, and living in gorgeous Key West was all the convincing that she needed. With an avid appreciation for the outdoors, volunteering has allowed BJ to continue her outdoor pursuits while helping protect a significant historic site.
“I work primarily at the front gate and I enjoy talking to newcomers about all we have to offer at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.” BJ says. “A lot of first time visitors want to tour the fort and are very interested in the historic elements of Fort Taylor. It is also fun to meet so many people from other states and other countries. I have made a lot of friends while working at the park and it’s always fun to come back and catch up on their lives.”
Seeing the joy that people get from visiting a Florida state park puts a smile on her face. She loves hearing about all the different adventures that guests have, especially the ones that they make at Fort Zachary Taylor.
BJ considers herself a connoisseur of sunsets. She boasts that Fort Zachary Taylor is “the most beautiful place to view the sunset in Key West.” She encourages all visitors to visit the fort, learn its history, and of course stay for the astounding sunset.