Karen Cloud
A retired Sumter County educator who lives right next door to Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, volunteer Karen Cloud plays keys roles in event planning, youth leadership, fundraising and other activities at the park.
Named Adult Volunteer of the Year for Visitor Services for the entire Florida Park Service last year, Karen is a valued member of our team. She is the adult volunteer leader our Dade Pioneers and Dade's Youth groups for students. Owing directly to Karen's efforts, our annual Halloween event has been greatly expanded an enhanced. She is also a board member and officer of the Dade Battlefield Society, our citizen support organization.
Born in Gainesville, Karen moved to Bushnell at the ripe age of three. “I have grown up with Dade Park - birthday parties, playing tennis, softball, etc., and many, many cookouts. Great family memories. Then, as a teacher, I would bring my students to Dade to learn about our rich history and the importance of this site.”
As a volunteer, she is most inspired by “the students and knowing I am helping keep our park alive.” Without volunteers like Karen, Dade Battlefield could not offer the wide array of events, classes and interpretive programs for which the park has become known.
