FLSSP Volunteers Presented with Awards

Each year, Washington State Parks recognizes the contributions made by state parks volunteers who have made an immeasurable impact on the natural world, our cultural landscape and how visitors experience parks. 

Both the agency and two board members were presented awards at the July WA State Parks Commission meeting.

Founding member Debbie Berto was awarded the “Lifetime Achievement” award and Bill Way, board member and head of the Trails Committee, was given the “Significant Contribution by a Volunteer” award for his work on the Comprehensive Trails Plan.

As a founding member of FLSSP, Debbie has volunteered with Washington State Parks for over 14 years. She has served on the Board of Directors for more than six years and improved the park through her efforts to raise $1.1 million dollars for the all-access playground. She has also led multiple annual events and still plays a key role in communications and advisor for FLSSP.

Bill Way has spent hundreds of hours working to create a new Comprehensive Trails Plan for the park. This plan is designed to increase accessibility and connectivity for all park visitors while working to protect the park’s habitats. Bill is a tireless advocate for the natural environment and our parks. He is a creative person with a can-do attitude, who has done so much for the parks while making time to mentor others.

Because of the dedication of these two outstanding board members and of that of the entire board, Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park was recognized for “Outstanding Contribution by a Group”. If you are interested in making a contribution to our parks and would like to join the amazing FLSSP board, contact director@flssp.org.

To read about all of the 2021 award winners, visit Announcing our 2021 Volunteer Award winners! | Adventure Awaits, WA.