FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to grace the Treasure Coast, communities are coming together, and the upcoming Fort Pierce Ghost Walk stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of local involvement. While the event takes place in our charming neighbor to the south, Fort Pierce, its spirit of community and dedication to local heritage resonates deeply with residents across Indian River County, including those in Vero Beach. This annual spectral journey, scheduled for October 22-23 and October 25, is more than just a spooky tour; it’s a testament to how volunteers keep the heart of a community alive.
Organized by Main Street Fort Pierce, the Ghost Walk is an intricate dance of history, folklore, and, most importantly, human dedication. “It takes over 100 volunteers to run this event, so we are just so happy with the turnout this year,” noted Joanne Blandford from Main Street Fort Pierce. This sentiment underscores the vital role that everyday citizens play in enriching the cultural tapestry of our region. For those in Vero Beach looking for engaging local events or inspiration for community involvement, this initiative offers a compelling example.
The Fort Pierce Ghost Walk is a vibrant example of how dedicated volunteers breathe life into local traditions, showcasing the irreplaceable value of community spirit across the Treasure Coast.
The allure of volunteering goes beyond altruism; it’s a pathway to connection and purpose. Robynn Holland, one of the dedicated 100 volunteers, shared her experience: “We moved to Fort Pierce in the middle of 2020 in the middle of Covid, and there was nothing to do.” Her search for engagement led her to the Fort Pierce Yacht Club, one of many nonprofits collaborating with Main Street Fort Pierce. She advises, “If you want to get involved, if you really don’t know anybody and want to get connected, you can get involved through Main Street.” This advice holds true for any resident of Vero Beach or Indian River County eager to forge new bonds and contribute meaningfully to their own local fabric.
A significant voice advocating for involvement is Pat DeShong, who champions the often-overlooked potential of senior volunteers. At a recent WPTV “Let’s Hear It” event, she passionately called for seniors to dive headfirst into community service. “I also see so many seniors like myself out there, and we have so much to offer. Most of us have so much emotional intelligence. We don’t get uptight about certain things or stressed out that if you’re younger, you do, or I used to when I was younger,” DeShong explained. Her words echo a profound truth for Vero Beach, where a significant and active senior population possesses a wealth of wisdom and experience. Volunteering, she adds, can even lead to new career paths and invaluable social connections.
The economic impact of volunteering is substantial. A study by the University of Maryland estimates the value of volunteer time at $34.79 per hour, illustrating that volunteers collectively save communities billions annually. For the Fort Pierce Ghost Walk, this means the event, which could not happen without its volunteer army, is sustained by the priceless gift of time and effort.
If you’re considering a unique experience this October, or looking for ways to support local initiatives near Vero Beach, the Fort Pierce Ghost Walk promises both entertainment and a feel-good contribution.
* Event Dates: October 22-23 and October 25
* Ticket Price: $15
* Beneficiary: Proceeds directly support the nonprofit Main Street Fort Pierce, furthering their mission to preserve and revitalize historic downtown areas.
For further information and to purchase tickets, visit the Main Street Fort Pierce website. This annual event is not just a glimpse into the past, but a shining example of how a community, powered by its people, builds a vibrant future for everyone on the Treasure Coast.
