2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet

Adam Champoux was named 2017 Volunteer of the Year at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

Adam Champoux was named 2017 Volunteer of the Year at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

by Ceal Craig

On Saturday April 1, 2017 I joined the staff of the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society to welcome and thank a large number of refuge volunteers at the annual volunteer appreciation luncheon in Fremont.

The San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex Volunteer of the Year was Ken Roux, a retired member of law enforcement who supports the Environment Education Center Marsh-In summer camp every year by providing security during the overnight sleepover. Ken also trains interns, conducts interpretive programs, and volunteers at several special events.

Volunteers who contributed many hours and in unique situations were recognized as well: Larry Rosenblum was named Rookie Volunteer of the Year, and the Environmental Education Restoration Crew was named Team Volunteers of the Year.

Volunteers who contributed many hours and in unique situations were recognized at the 2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet held at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

Volunteers who contributed many hours and in unique situations were recognized at the 2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet held at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

Mary Deschene, the Society’s Program Administrator, recognized Adam Champoux for his work in the Fremont Nature Store.

I am always inspired and encouraged by the many volunteers, young and old, singles and families, who give their most precious gift to us: their time and labor. Thank you all!

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.

2017 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Credit Colter Cook.