Joan Morris
Board Member since 2004
How long have you been a volunteer at The Barnacle?
Four years, however, I've been a member of The Barnacle Society for many, many years. We've been attending concerts since the early days. But I never thought of volunteering--no one asked me. As Volunteer Coordinator, I hope to increase the volunteer activity, especially with the exciting things that are happening with our Strategic Partnerships and the unique new events that will be offered.
Why do you serve?
My passion is Historic Preservation. Thank goodness, the City of Miami is one of the most active cities in the nation to recognize the importance of preserving our heritage, saving historic structures and sites for future generations. Historic Preservation is the ultimate recycle! I love The Barnacle, the site is incredible, and it's my good fortune to be able to support and help preserve this important home, the oldest home in Miami still on the original site.
How important is volunteerism?
One of my favorite quotes is by Jane Goodall. "What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what difference you make." Voluntarism gives members an opportunity to participate in Historic Preservation. Our son, Earl, is active in restoring the marine railway, his wife, Holly, is working with him, as well as doing historic research to enhance the information available about The Barnacle. Those volunteers with whom I've worked are enthusiastic and energetic about volunteering. They have a feeling of accomplishment and have found new friends. So many members and friends attending The Barnacle concerts have remarked how wonderful it is to get a glimpse of how people lived in the early days of Coconut Grove. We're fortunate to be able to share this treasure with our neighbors and their families.
What is your favorite Barnacle story?
I was delighted and proud when my husband, John Powers, joined me on the Board as Treasurer. We both are passionate about Historic Preservation and have been active in "The Little House" being awarded Historic Designation in our neighborhood, Ye Little Wood.
If you'd like to volunteer at our events, please contact:
Joan Morris, Volunteer Coordinator, at 305-793-3172 or yelittlewood@earthlink.net