Calusa Waterkeeper to speak at FISH Virtual Friendly Faces Luncheon

All islanders, friends and family are invited to the community-wide FISH OF SANCAP Virtual Friendly Faces Luncheon, scheduled for Tues., May 10 beginning at noon via Zoom.  Lunch, prepared by George & Wendy’s, consists of a cold entree, side, water bottle and dessert.  The cost of the luncheon is waived and complimentary to all participants.  FISH volunteers will deliver meals to islanders beginning at 11:30am. 

Guest speaker Trisha Botty Executive Director, Calusa Waterkeeper, will introduce the organization and programs designed to improve the waters of our jurisdiction, including impacts on riparian and estuarine systems, wildlife habitat, and marine life. She will also address the importance of public education concerning the significance, condition, and future of our water bodies and watersheds.

Trisha has over 15 years of experience driving social change by leading innovative programs, strategies, collaboration, capacity building and campaigns while building meaningful and authentic relationships that lift-up people, organizations, and communities. Her experience comes from her work in government, philanthropy, labor, organizing, and nonprofits in D.C., New York, and Southwest Florida. Trisha graduated from the State University of New York at Oswego with a Political Science degree. She is a life-long learner and is currently working on her master’s degree at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications with a concentration in Public Interest Communication. Additionally, Trisha was a 2020 recipient of the 40 under 40 award from Gulfshore Life.

“We are excited to introduce the Calusa Waterkeeper organization to our community, whose mission is to protect and restore the Caloosahatchee River from Lake Okeechobee to the coastal waters,” says Erika Broyles, Senior Services Director, FISH.  The Calusa Waterkeeper’s work closely with a dedicated group of volunteers in sampling and analyzing water bodies. They use the data collected to advocate on behalf of the community and inform the public and government officials on water quality issues. To learn more about the organization, visit https://calusawaterkeeper.org/

The FISH Friendly Faces luncheon is a great way to catch up with friends, make new connections and learn about exciting offerings in the area.  Reservations and meal choices are required by Fri., May 6 to the FISH Walk-In-Center, 239-472-4775.  Once registered, FISH will provide an emailed link and meeting ID number for access.