The Friends of Silver River State Park
To Preserve, Protect and Enhance Silver River
ABOUT US - WHAT IS A CSO?
The acronym "CSO" stands for Citizen Support Organization. CSO's are the non-profit volunteer organizations dedicated to preserving and enhancing the 161 award-winning state parks in Florida. There are currently more than 80 Friends groups supporting Florida state parks. They support the parks by providing volunteers, educating visitors, hosting events and raising funds for specific park projects.
The Friends of Silver River, Inc. was incorporated in 2005. We are an active group and encourage all new members to be as involved as they can. We meet each month on the 2nd Tuesday at 6PM in the Old Farmhouse. The meetings typically last 90 minutes and time is made afterwards for refreshments and chatting. Please feel free to come and check us out.
THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
President - Hellena Smejda
Hellena has been a CSO member from the beginning. Besides serving as president, she is also the newsletter editor and the coordinator for development of the equine trails.
E-mail: hellenas@mac.com
Vice President - Vince Druding
Capt. Vince is a nurse, a Florida Master Naturalist and a USCG Licensed Boat Captain. He is actively involved in the CSO and is frequently found out on Silver River conducting guided boat tours. He is the driving force behind our Seniors in the park program. 
Treasurer - Claudia Spiewak
Claudia and her husband, Mark, have been active in the CSO from the beginning. They spearhead the aluminum recycling efforts and have helped the Friends raise more than $700 so far. Mark is also a member of the board.
E-mail: spiewakwaiwada@hotmail.com
Secretary - Ev Gawenda
Ev has been a visitor to Florida since 1960 and a resident of Ocala since 1992, moving here to be near the Silver River. Camping, nature photography and kayaking are her favorite activities.
e-mail: evg509@gmail.com
Immediate Past President - Taryn Evans
Taryn has lived in Florida for over 30 years and enjoyed Silver River for many years prior to becoming president of the CSO in 2005. She strongly advocates for community participation in protecting and enhancing the the park's resources. Taryn and her husband, Terry have two children and all are active in the CSO.
e-mail: terevans@comcast.net
