Asbury Woods’ volunteers play a vital role in helping us to achieve our goals of conserving the land, connecting people to nature, and inspiring environmental stewardship. We were fortunate to have 1492 individual and group volunteers spend 5228.28 hours of their time caring for the Woods and sustaining our educational programs this past year. The recipients of Asbury Woods’ annual Volunteer of the Year Awards go above and beyond in their efforts to inspire a greater senses of environmental awareness, sustainability and stewardship to visitors. We are proud to announce the distinguished recipients of our annual Volunteer of the Year Awards.
Adult Volunteer of the Year: Debbie Turner
Since joining our volunteer team in 2024, Debbie Turner has brought her enthusiasm, reliability, and love for Asbury Woods to every role she’s taken on. After exploring various volunteer opportunities, she found her perfect fit in the Squeaky Frog Gift Shop, but that’s just the beginning of her contributions. From lending a hand at nearly all of our special events to serving on the planning committee for Winnie the Pooh’s Asbury Adventure, Debbie has become an essential part of our volunteer family. She is also a friendly and familiar face at Monday Music in the Woods, making visitors feel welcome and ensuring things run smoothly.
Over the past year, Debbie went above and beyond stepping up during staffing transitions, committing extra time, and being available wherever she was needed. Her dedication adds up to an extraordinary 396.65 lifetime volunteer hours with Asbury Woods, and her commitment to nature and community is an inspiration to us all. Thank you, Debbie, for the countless ways you’ve helped Asbury Woods thrive.
New Volunteer of the Year: Steve Timko
Each spring, Asbury Woods relies on dedicated volunteers to tackle the big facilities and grounds projects that keep our trails, buildings, and outdoor spaces in top
shape. This year, we were lucky to have Steve Timko step up to the challenge, and he didn’t just step up, he hit the ground running. In just a short period of time, Steve contributed an impressive 70.48 volunteer hours, lending a hand wherever it was needed. From moving tables and chairs to setting up tents, cleaning the parking lot, tending the grounds, and assisting on the trails, Steve approaches every task with humor, a can-do attitude, and a smile as bright as a sunny day in the woods.
Thanks to Steve’s hard work, Asbury Woods continues to be a beautiful and welcoming place for our community to explore. We are deeply grateful for his efforts and hope his example inspires others to join in making a difference.
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Wyatt Person
Since joining our volunteer team in 2022, Wyatt Person has jumped in wherever help was needed, but his true talent shines brightest as a Camp Assistant. Whether leading games, sparking curiosity in the Nature Center, or simply making campers feel welcome, Wyatt brings energy, patience, and a big smile to every day. This summer alone, Wyatt dedicated an incredible 73.48 hours in June and July to helping with summer camps across all age groups. No matter the program or grade level, he’s always ready to pitch in, making each day fun and memorable for our campers.
We are grateful to have such an enthusiastic member of the younger generation giving back to Asbury Woods. Thank you, Wyatt, for your time, energy, and commitment – you’ve made this summer one to remember!
