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S. W .A.M.P .
S.W.A.M.P.

Cultivating
Cultivating

espons
Environmental Responsibility
ibility
Env
ironmental R

in Students
in Students

he Alliance for Florida's National "To protect the land, you need to love
Parks, established in 2002, serves it, and to love it, you need to experience
T as the official philanthropic it. That’s why it’s crucial for our youth to
partner of Big Cypress, Biscayne, Dry explore the wonders of Florida’s wilderness.
Tortugas, and Everglades National Parks. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit The education programs, which immerse kids in our National Parks’
organization, The Alliance raises funds and awareness to support ecosystems, would not be possible without funds raised by The
programs and activities within these national parks, focusing on Alliance,” said Lulu Vilas, CEO of the Alliance for Florida’s National
education, exploration, and conservation. By uniting those who Parks.
champion the safeguarding of these natural treasures, The Alliance The Clyde Butcher: A Better Florida Award
ensures that Florida remains natural, wild, and accessible for future In alignment with its mission to promote environmental
generations. education and conservation, The Alliance for Florida's National
Connecting Students to the Big Cypress Swamp Parks established The Clyde Butcher: A Better Florida Award.
The Swamp Water And Me Program (S.W.A.M.P.) immerses Named after the renowned photographer Clyde Butcher, this
students in the diverse habitats of the Big Cypress swamp prestigious award honors artists who dedicate themselves to
through field trips and pre and post-visit ranger-led classroom preserving and amplifying the natural beauty and ecological
visits, offering first-time nature experiences to many participants. significance of Florida. The award recognizes individuals across
Through interactive lessons, students explore the intricate various creative disciplines, including photography, painting, writing,
relationships between freshwater swamps and downstream and more, who work tirelessly to keep Florida natural, wild, and
estuaries, gaining insights into the importance of these ecosystems. accessible.
This approach not only enhances their understanding of local Recipients of this award are celebrated for their passion in
environmental dynamics but also instills a sense of responsibility advancing the narrative of Florida's natural world, focusing on
toward preserving South Florida's natural resources. wildlife, plant life, lands, waters, and the communities interwoven
Promoting STEM Skills and Environmental Ethics throughout. The award aligns with The Alliance's pillars of support:
The Swamp Water and Me Program (S.W.A.M.P.) has been a education, exploration, and conservation. By honoring such artists,
cornerstone of environmental education in Collier County, Florida, The Alliance underscores the importance of cultural contributions to
for over 25 years. This curriculum-based initiative introduces environmental awareness and preservation.
sixth-grade students to the unique ecosystems of Big Cypress As environmental challenges continue to evolve, programs like
National Preserve, fostering a deep appreciation for the watershed's S.W.A.M.P. are essential in educating and inspiring individuals
role within the greater Everglades ecosystem. By aligning with to value and protect natural ecosystems. By instilling a deep
Florida Sunshine State Standards, S.W.A.M.P. provides hands- appreciation for the natural world and recognizing those who
on, interdisciplinary field experiences that cultivate a lifelong advocate for its preservation, The Alliance for Florida's National
commitment to environmental stewardship. Parks contributes to a sustainable future where informed citizens
A key objective of S.W.A.M.P. is to equip students with actively participate in the conservation of our planet's precious
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) skills environments. The premier event of the season, Wine & Wildlife,
through immersive, inquiry-based learning. By engaging in scheduled for February 11, 2025, at the Naples Sailing & Yacht Club,
scientific discovery and exploration, students develop critical offers a unique opportunity to support Florida's national parks. This
thinking abilities and a new environmental ethos. This evening soiree raises awareness and funds for the diverse programs
methodology leads to transformational change, encouraging championed by The Alliance for Florida's National Parks.
participants to become informed citizens and future community By attending Wine & Wildlife, you contribute directly to the
leaders dedicated to environmental conservation. preservation and enhancement of Florida's natural treasures. With
Impact and Outreach live music and engaging presentations, the evening promises to be
Through the support of The Alliance, S.W.A.M.P. connects both enlightening and enjoyable. Tickets are on sale now at
underserved communities to nature, providing students with https://floridanationalparks.org/event/wine-wildlife-2025/
transformative experiences that might otherwise be inaccessible. By Secure your spot to make a meaningful impact on the future of
serving over 2,600 students annually, over two thirds of which are Florida's national parks.
from Title 1 Schools, the program plays a vital role in fostering a Together, we can ensure that Florida’s greatest natural ecosystems
new generation of environmental stewards who are informed about and conservation lands are preserved and protected for generations
the delicate balance of South Florida's ecosystems and motivated to come.
to protect them.
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