News

By Tonya Higgins, Director of Development and Operations

After 21 years of extraordinary dedication, Lesley Argiri and Brian McDonald hosted their final Save the Manatee 5K fundraiser in Michigan this past September and will be concluding the virtual component at the end of the year.

Since its inception in 2003, the event has raised nearly half a million dollars through race registrations, manatee adoptions, and donations, all benefiting Save the Manatee Club’s vital conservation efforts. Lesley and Brian’s tireless work has left a legacy in Michigan and made a significant impact on manatee conservation worldwide. Their leadership has built a tradition of community support for our beloved manatees, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

On September 28, Michigan held its final in-person race, and Save the Manatee Club was honored to be represented once again by Cora Berchem, Director of Multimedia and Manatee Research Associate. Manatee advocates from near and far showed their support by running or walking, adopting manatees, and taking pictures with our giant inflatable manatee, ‘Hope.’ Joining the crowd were Michigan State Representative Alicia St. Germaine and State Senator Kevin Hertel, a personal representative for Congressman John James, and Harrison Township Supervisor Kenneth Verkest, who all presented Lesley and Brian with awards for their efforts.

Supporter Kevin Markowski traveled all the way from Connecticut to attend a sports game in Detroit and happened to stumble upon the race.

“It was such a great event, and I’m very glad I found it online. I haven’t been running as many races lately as I used to, and, on a whim, decided to check to see what was on while we were out there for the game. I’m happy to have supported your very worthy cause in some small way,” says Markowski. Since his teenage daughter will be attending college in Florida, she is already planning on attending the race once it finds its new home in Florida.

As a tribute to Lesley and Brian’s significant contributions to the world of manatees and environmental education—and in recognition of their passion for teaching—we are honored to announce the launch of the Save the Manatee 5K Scholarship Fund. This fund will benefit students who are passionate about environmental conservation and provide financial assistance to those committed to studying fields that support manatee protection and broader environmental efforts. You can learn more about the Scholarship Fund at savethemanatee.org/5k-scholarship.

We are excited to share that, with Lesley and Brian’s invaluable assistance, the 5K will transition to Florida under Save the Manatee Club’s leadership starting next year. Hosting the fundraiser in Florida, the natural habitat of manatees, presents a new opportunity to grow the race’s impact and engage more supporters. This move will allow us to foster deeper connections with local communities that live alongside manatees and increase their involvement in conservation.

You can still sign up for the virtual 5K through December 31 at savethemanatee5k.com.