The Bermuda Zoological Society [BZS] announced that Darlene Fortin and Marcus Bassett are their 2014 Volunteer of the Year recipients, with the two volunteers contributing over 400 hours to our organization.

“The pair were recognized at a special reception celebrating their hard work throughout the year on Tuesday, December 9th, hosted by the Centre on Philanthropy and the ACE Group,” a

“Darlene Fortin, the BZS Adult Volunteer of the Year, has proven herself to be an invaluable resource to the BZS and the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo [BAMZ].

“Darlene has volunteered in the Gift Shop and has assisted with the citizen scientist initiative REEF Watch. During our Zoobilee: The Hungry Games fundraising event, she served as our chef liaison, helping to coordinate chefs and making sure they had all they needed.

“She has also recently joined the crew of The Endurance, where she assists with “Water is Me” educational classes, whale-watching voyages, and general crewing aboard the boat.

“Darlene is a volunteer that is always willing to help in any possible way – a real go-getter,” shared Joanne Chisnall, Bermuda Zoological Society’s Volunteer Coordinator.

“Over the past year, Darlene has contributed more than 300 hours in volunteer service.

“Marcus Basset, our Student Volunteer of the Year, may only be 15 years old, but the Somersfield student has certainly been leaving his mark.

“He began volunteering at BAMZ in 2013, when he served as an interpretive guide in the Madagascar exhibit, keeping an eye on mischievous lemurs and guiding visitors and members through the exhibit. He has also volunteered in Local Tails, helping with interpretation at the touch pool and overseeing the safe handling of sea cucumbers, sea stars, and urchins.

“Seeing his potential, the staff then began to include him in exhibit cleanings and feedings.

“Marcus is a quiet young man, but he has become a big part of the BZS’s volunteer team, and has completed more than 100 hours in the past year,” Mrs. Chisnall said.

“Volunteers play a vital role at both the BZS and BAMZ. On average, they contribute more than 1,000 hours each year, which based on an estimated value of $20 per hour equates to $20,000 in volunteer time. Our volunteers work in a variety of tasks, including animal husbandry, animal feedings, interpretations and tours, educational programmes, and so much more.

“Without a doubt, the BZS and the BAMZ would not be able to do many of the exciting things that we do without the help of our amazing team of volunteers,” Mrs. Chisnall added.

“To become a volunteer, visit the Bermuda Zoological Society’s website at www.bzs.bm or contact Joanne Chisnall, Volunteer Coordinator, at 293-2727 ext. 2130 or email volunteers.bzs@gov.bm.”