Celebrating Our Volunteers: Honoring Dedication at White Point
On August 24, the Conservancy gathered at White Point Nature Preserve to celebrate the heart of our mission—our volunteers. Friends, families, and community members came together to enjoy live music, delicious food, and, most importantly, to honor the incredible dedication of those who give their time and talents each year.
Each year, Conservancy volunteers contribute over 20,000 hours to caring for the natural lands of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. This annual celebration recognizes both individual honorees and the wider community for their time, skills, and unwavering commitment to conservation.
President’s Award: Rob Kautz
We were proud to present the President’s Award to Rob Kautz, whose leadership and generosity have shaped the Conservancy for more than 13 years. Rob served on the Board, including as President, devoting thousands of hours of expertise. Most recently, he played a key role in securing the purchase of 96 acres of land that will serve as a vital wildlife corridor and guided the development of the Conservancy’s Strategic Plan.
Although his Board tenure has concluded, Rob continues to lead as chair of the new Strategic Planning Committee, ensuring his lasting impact on the Conservancy’s mission.
Outstanding Volunteers
Each year we recognize Outstanding Volunteers for their exceptional commitment to preserving land and restoring habitat for the education and enjoyment of all. This year’s honorees were:
- Steve Core
- Deborah Deutsch
- Engle-Tseng Family (Judy, Kris, Anza, and Ali)
- Penny Good
- Leona Hiraoka
- John Horne
- Desarie LaVigne-Bennett
- Andrew Lichtman
- Karen Peters
- Teresa Vogel
- Mabel Yu
Outstanding New Volunteers
We also celebrated Outstanding New Volunteers, who made a meaningful impact in their very first year with the Conservancy:
- Paige Goodman
- Cheryl Kohr
- Leanne Levine
- Cristina Martin
- Dennis Swan
- Jody White
Deena Sheridan Award: Dee Edridge
The Deena Sheridan Award was proudly presented to Dee Edridge for her remarkable dedication as an Education Docent. Dee has inspired countless students through classroom programs and field trips, sharing her deep knowledge of birds and conservation with warmth and enthusiasm. Her ability to connect with children sparks curiosity, fosters understanding, and makes learning about nature a joyful experience.
Conservation Partner Award: City of Rancho Palos Verdes
We were honored to welcome Mayor Dave Bradley, who accepted the Conservation Partner Award on behalf of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. For more than 35 years, the City and Conservancy have worked together to preserve 1,500 acres of open space, including the recent protection of a wildlife corridor. The City’s commitment to endangered species recovery, public forums, and volunteer programs like Trail Crew and Trail Watch has been invaluable.
Special Recognition: Tony Baker
A Special Recognition Award was presented to Tony Baker for his many years of leadership at the White Point Native Plant Demonstration Garden. His expertise in native plants and his steady guidance have built a welcoming, knowledgeable community of garden volunteers.
Looking Ahead
After the awards, volunteers enjoyed a talk by Seed Farm Manager Neil Uelman, who shared exciting updates on conservation work at our native plant Seed Farm. We are grateful to Patagonia, Santa Monica, for generously donating gifts to this year’s honorees.
Above all, we extend our deepest gratitude to every volunteer. Your energy, generosity, and love of nature make you the true heart of the Conservancy. Together, we are preserving land, restoring habitats, and inspiring future generations to care for the Peninsula’s wild and beautiful places.