Presenter: Fred Richards, Executive Director, Timucuan Parks Foundation

About this program:

Join us for this virtual program to learn more about the Timucuan Parks Foundation and their role as a support and friend organization for our national, state and local partners (National Park Service; State of Florida, City of Jacksonville). In this presentation you will learn about the mission, vision and the community impact in Duval County as a result of their programs and volunteer opportunities. You will also learn more about some of the 25+ parks we help preserve, promote and enhance through community education, engagement and enjoyment. This program will be presented virtually via Zoom. ***Please note: You must register to attend this virtual presentation.***

About the presenter:

Fred Richards' love for the outdoors began in his youth in Pennsylvania, where he spent countless hours camping and hiking the Appalachian Trail. This passion has been a constant throughout his life. After earning a Bachelor's degree in Recreation and Leisure Management, he gained valuable experience as an Assistant Wildlife Biologist with the Bureau of Land Management in Wyoming.

He then transitioned to the nonprofit sector, working with Kids Peace as a Recreation Counselor, where he introduced troubled youth to the outdoors through kayaking, hiking, and ropes course activities.

Before joining the Timucuan Park Foundation as Executive Director in December of 2024, Fred served as the Director of Development at Mission House Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to helping the unhoused and uninsured. During his tenure, he significantly increased funding by over 300% and was recognized with the Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Award.

Throughout his nearly 30-year career in nonprofit leadership, Fred has held various roles, including:

• Vice President at ElderSource
• Vice President of Community Services at Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida
• Development Director at the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida
• Executive Director of the Collier County Homeless Coalition
• Director of Adult Community Services at the David Lawrence Center

A skilled grant writer, Fred has secured over $8 million in private, state, and federal funding. He holds an MBA, an MS in Health Care Administration, and a BS in Recreation and Leisure Management.

This program will be presented virtually via Zoom. ***Please note: You must register to attend this virtual presentation.***