FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Debby Steele
Director of Marketing and Communications
(941) 366-5731 Extension 225
Email:  dsteele@selby.org

(Sarasota, FL, April 30, 2009):  Teens interested in summer volunteer opportunities at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are invited to an information session on Saturday, May 16, at 10:00 a.m. The session, to be held in the Scully Conference Room in the Payne Mansion, will focus on the types of positions available and will offer teens a chance to finalize their plans before school ends on May 29, 2009.

“We really love having young people around the Gardens, and volunteering here is incredibly fun and interesting,” said Selby Volunteer Manager Emily Lane. “Our focus is on giving them volunteer possibilities that will help them learn new skills and develop confidence.” Summer volunteer positions at the Gardens include working in the garden or nursery, helping with summer children’s programs, and a variety of tour and docent positions. As a not-for-profit organization, Selby Gardens volunteer hours can be counted towards Bright Futures and other public service requirements.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Emily Lane, manager of volunteer services, at (941) 366-5731 x 267, or e-mail elane@selby.org.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a respected center for research and education as well as a famous orchid showplace.  The Gardens is located at 900 South Palm Avenue in Sarasota. It is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of Christmas day.  For further information call 941.366.5731 or visit www.selby.org.

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