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On August 28, 2025, volunteers, board members, and supporters gathered at Northern Flow Vineyards at Deluke’s Garden Center to celebrate another year of dedication to the Indian River Lakes Conservancy with music by Kaydence Timerman. It was a heartfelt evening that highlighted the strength of our community and the many hands that make our work possible.
The evening would not have been complete without recognizing the countless ways volunteers support IRLC. From stewarding trails and serving on the board, to stuffing envelopes, baking goods for events, and lending their time and talents, our volunteers keep the Conservancy rooted in purpose. Guests enjoyed food catered in-kind by Corner Market – Theresa, along with baked goods and dips generously provided by board members.
This gathering reflected more than the lands and waters we protect it showcased the spirit of community that grows around IRLC. Office Manager Katie Syring, who will be phasing out of her role as her husband’s Army career takes their family to a new post next year, reflected on her journey with IRLC prior to being a staff member. “The education committee lit something up inside me that I thought I had lost in motherhood,” she shared. Through her involvement, she found not only purpose but also an accepting community that helped guide her back to herself and gave her so much more.
Board Chair John O’Driscoll, also took a moment to express gratitude, thanking the board and volunteers for their tireless commitment: “Without the board and volunteers’ commitment to the organization, IRLC would have had a much harder time making it through these transitions in the last year.” Further reflection was held in honor of George Kabel, who has been on the board for the last 8 years and is phasing out at the end of September. George has served as secretary for many years and has brought a great deal or dedication to the development committee which he has also chaired for several years. In remembrance of his time at IRLC George recounted, “of course the friendship and associations with many, board members, staff, donors and volunteers, are the best part of these relationships. I wish the Indian River Lakes Conservancy the very best….thank you all; it has been a wonderful experience.”
We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, and to all who continue to support IRLC in ways both big and small. Your time, energy, and dedication are what keep this organization strong and moving forward. Together, we celebrate not only the conservation of land and water but also the vibrant, supportive community that has grown around it.
A very special thank you to Lisa O’Driscoll who came to the event early to set up and made floral center piece arrangements for all to enjoy.
Thank you for being a part of IRLC your efforts make all the difference.
To learn about our volunteer opportunities and how you can get involved please click HERE.