February 28, 2024| People
By: Michela Sales
Hello everyone,
My name is Michela, and I have had the privilege of interning at the Foundation for the past two years. You might recognize my name from a few blog posts or perhaps you've seen me at events like the Block Party or the Gala & Auction. More significantly, if you’ve volunteered with the LHF over the past two years, we have likely met, as a substantial portion of my time has been spent organizing and participating in volunteer events, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!
From coordinating the Volunteer Appreciation Ice Cream Social, to searching for macroinvertebrates in the Musconetcong River with field trip students, to demonstrating water sample collection techniques aboard the Floating Classroom, my time here has been filled with incredible experiences. It has truly been a pleasure working alongside the dedicated LHF staff and volunteers to protect Lake Hopatcong and enhance the community that surrounds it.
In my initial days, I received a crash course in the area's history while acquainting myself with the beautifully restored building that serves as our office, which was originally the Lake Hopatcong Station, once part of the original Lackawanna Railroad system. Learning about the Morris Canal and discovering its remnants at Hopatcong State Park was equally enlightening. The depth of history associated with this internship took me by surprise, but I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in the bygone days of New Jersey's largest lake.
One of the most impactful experiences I had was assisting with the student field trips. Though the program is geared toward fourth and fifth grade students, I personally learned so much valuable information about water quality, watersheds, aquatic life, and most importantly, how to be an environmental steward. Being part of the field trip education team will forever hold a special place in my heart, not only because of all I learned but also because of the friendships forged with fellow team members and education volunteers.
Before interning at the LHF, I had a limited understanding of how non-profits function and how they become successful. One important lesson I learned was the indispensable role volunteers play in an organization's success. It consistently amazed me how many people come together and give of their time and talents for the sake of this lake and this community. It is something that truly deserves praise and recognition.
I would like to thank everyone at the Foundation for their support, for embracing me, and for teaching me so much about how to take care of our valuable water resources. As I transition to my new role with the Friends of the New Jersey School of Conservation, I know I will forever appreciate my time here and all the memories and knowledge I have gained. Thank you to you all!
As I told my fellow education teammates, this is not goodbye, it’s just farewell for now!
Warmly,
Michela
