Volunteer Opportunities
As a local, grassroots non-profit, we’re only as strong as our volunteer team! It takes a village to keep Sea Turtle Oversight Protection operational, so we have many opportunities available- both on and off the beach. How would you like to serve?
-
Not for the faint of heart. This requires dedication and commitment. If you want to be on the FRONT LINES of sea turtle conservation, this is it.
-
Minimum of 8 hours per week for at least 8 weeks. You can volunteer for nighttime shifts from 4 to 8 hours. Shifts are from 8pm-4am.
-
Mandatory training is initially conducted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) with more detailed training by S.T.O.P., including 40 hours in the field with senior staff before managing your own nest assignments on the habitat (beach).
-
Responsibilities include: Conducting night patrols of approximately 2 miles of habitat monitoring multiple nests in your assigned area, and rescuing, recovering, and releasing disoriented hatchlings. Collecting statistical data of the nesting habitat and hatchling disorientation. Engaging with and educating the general public on the nesting habitat.
-
-
Throughout the year, S.T.O.P. hosts tables at ocean conservation events and festivals for educational purposes to raise awareness, recruit more volunteers, and fundraise (through the sale of earth-friendly products). If you enjoy interacting with people and are available on weekends, we’d appreciate your support.
-
-
A new committee has been formed to engage with the coastal communities (hotels, condos, businesses) to educate them on the dangers of artificial lights, with the ultimate goal of educating and getting everyone in compliance (or better) with existing lighting ordinances. This is a pivotal committee. If we can mitigate the lighting issues, fewer staff will need to be on the beach. If you are organized, tenacious, and like speaking in public and to local authorities (including City Council meetings), this is for you.
-
-
This multi-faceted committee looks after our website, our follower engagement (on social media, newsletters, etc.) and so much more. Persons with brand marketing, social media, graphic design, and video editing experience are highly coveted.
-
-
As a non-profit, fundraising and securing grants are the foundation to achieve our Mission. This team seeks grant opportunities and files the applications as well as brainstorms ways to raise funds and awareness of S.T.O.P.
-
-
Another way we raise funds is by selling earth & sea turtle friendly products at our Headquarters, as well as our online store. If you have retail experience, like educating the public, and seeking sustainable products that customers desire, this is the role for you.
-
Each position requires a very unique set of skills and stamina, but each serves the sea turtles in a meaningful way. Many of our rescue staff also support one (or more) of the above missions.
NOTE: Rescue Personnel have a defined enrollment period, as dictated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). If you are interested in being a member of our rescue staff, complete your application ASAP. Training sessions are very limited.
