UF/IFAS Extension volunteers had a big day April 22. In the morning, Sarasota County commissioners showered them (and other county volunteers) with accolades for the services they have provided across a range of programs and activities. Then, in the early evening, Sarasota County Extension feted the volunteers in its annual “Volunteer Recognition” dinner and ceremony.

At the commission volunteer recognition, five Extension volunteers stepped forward to receive honors for the larger group:

• Gary and Marsha Herlick, Community Garden Managers
• Cindy Drill, Master Gardener
• Ashley Worsham, 4-H program
• Dr. Mary Davis, Environmental program.

These five volunteers represented the 250-plus Extension volunteers, each of whom helped promote the Extension mission to provide education and programs to the Sarasota County community on landscapes, gardening, energy savings, natural areas, youth development, and much more.

Even through a tumultuous and dangerous hurricane season, with widespread property damage and potential perils, Extension volunteers continued to give to the community and to support one another.

Sarasota County Extension thanks all its volunteers for their outstanding efforts in 2024.

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