As a finalist in the Cox Conserves Heroes, Charlie Harrelson received $1,250 which he donated to the Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation Foundation as his environmental nonprofit of choice. His desire is to apply the proceeds to the preservation and acquisition of Pleasure House Point.
Individuals like Charlie and community organizations continue to work to preserve Pleasure House Point, the last undeveloped land on the Lynnhaven River Watershed. Some might ask, “What’s the harm in building a small commercial development on this property?” The answer is simple. There is no do-over. Undisturbed land cannot be re-created. This is a legacy purchase; we will not have this opportunity again. By preserving the property, we preserve a piece of ourselves.
In addition to his grassroots efforts, Charlie has conducted extensive water quality and habitat research and recruited fellow students to help protect the area. To inspire others to act, Charlie and his friends created a documentary film to tell the story of why this property should be preserved which can be viewed here. We’re inspired by Charlie and we hope you are too.
© 2012 Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Foundation
