The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center

Animal Planet's

HERO OF THE YEAR
Jean Beasley

Jean Beasley with Holden II, and with Lennie and the Animal Planet crew

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"It is an honor for our work to be recognized. We could not accomplish what we do for sea turtle conservation without the dedication and support of our volunteer staff and many others in the greater sea turtle community. Everyone has an opportunity to make a difference. All you have to do is reach out."
Jean Beasley

Animal Planet solicited nomination essays of 250 words or less for the Hero of the Year award. Volunteer Martha Eggleston submitted this essay which perfectly encapsulates Jean's dedication.

It's no surprise Jean is our Hero of the Year every year.

The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center opened in 1997 by its founder and director, Jean Beasley, in memory of her daughter's efforts to assure survival of sea turtles. Jean’s around the clock dedication and devotion to saving turtles is shown in the tireless number of hours she devotes to their rescue and care. Her efforts have brought international attention to the uncertain future sea turtles face. As a retired teacher, Jean believes in the power of education and has developed an extensive program to involve people of all ages. Junior interns are accepted at age 13. College students work year-round receiving class credit. Twelve week summer internships are selected from applications from the

and other countries. Thousands visit the facility each year to see the turtles, hear their stories, and learn what they can do to help. The center’s all-volunteer group receives no state or federal funding and operates on a modest budget based on fundraising/donations. Twelve to twenty recovered turtles are released each year from the 900 SF center. Jean’s passion of saving sea turtles has inspired students and adults to find direction in their lives in wildlife management, conservation, veterinary medicine, and related fields. Her belief that everyone can make a difference is invigorating and challenging to all.