News

Introduction by Brooke Russell, Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator

After joining the Disney College Program, Avery discovered her passion for advocating for manatees. Since moving to Utah, she has turned that inspiration into action by holding educational presentations at her local museum to raise awareness about manatee conservation. Avery is also our active Virtual Presentation Volunteer, holding presentations for classrooms across the United States.
Avery’s commitment shows that you don’t have to live near manatee habitats to inspire action!

What inspired you to start volunteering with Save the Manatee Club?

I saw an episode of Reading Rainbow where Levar Burton went on a rescue with Save the Manatee Club (SMC) and SeaWorld when I was about six. Ever since then I’ve been hooked on manatees and wanted volunteer with SMC!

Do you have an adopted manatee? If so, who is it and why did you choose them?

My husband and I run a small business selling animal art for wildlife conservation (The Art of Conservation). Each year we do a special manatee promotion that culminates in a new manatee adoption! We hold a vote on social media to decide which manatee gets adopted. To date we’ve adopted 6 different manatees, the first of whom was Flash. Our other adoptees are Phyllis, Moo Shoo, Gator, Betsy, and Margarito.

Do you have a favorite memory or experience while volunteering?

Since I’m not based in Florida, I do virtual presentations. I love it when the kids ask smart, funny, or really curious questions. They always surprise me with the things they are thinking about!

What’s one surprising or interesting thing you’ve learned while volunteering with us?

Before learning the presentation material, I didn’t know about red tide. Some of the kids I’ve presented to have even taught me more about it!

Tell us a little about yourself: your background, hobbies, or anything you’d like to share

I’m lucky enough that my hobbies and my professional life have coincided so much. I’m an artist, performer, and writer working professionally in theatre, writing on the side, and using my art to support wildlife conservation. During my undergrad I had the chance to participate in the Disney College Program. While living in Florida, I got to swim with manatees in Crystal River and often visited Lil’ Joe and Lou while they were at The Living Seas at Epcot.