Across Catalina Island’s nearly 48,000 acres of land, the work of restoring native habitats, removing trash and improving trails never ends. Volunteers are vital to the Conservancy’s work and one man who gives his time to the Conservancy says it’s not only a way to preserve the Island he loves, but it has helped him create community. 

“I was new to the Island two and a half years ago,” said Larry Witkowski. “This is a little networking, getting to know people.” 

Witkowski was recently honored as Conservancy Volunteer of the Year. He has racked up over 370 volunteer hours with the Conservancy since he first lent a hand in 2024. He supports a range of work from helping at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden to removing invasive plants, cleaning up the Ackerman Native Plant Nursery, supporting fox monitoring and transporting student groups around the Island. 

“It’s really good meeting people and introducing them to the Island,” he said. “It’s fun when we see them get excited about the Island. It keeps us from taking if for granted.” 

Witkowski works nights so filling his day with meaningful work that improves the place he calls home is a worthy commitment. He said volunteering with the Conservancy has given him valuable access to the Island’s wildlands. This commitment has also allowed him to make friends with other volunteers and Conservancy staff.  

“Everyone who shows up, even on the mainland, we know everyone. It’s our own little group,” he said. “Sometimes we’ll see each other and hang out in town.” 

Chris Young, the Conservancy’s director of volunteers and workforce development, described Witkowski as a “dependable volunteer who shows up with a great attitude.” 

“He brings a lot to the table as a volunteer with his great demeanor,” said Young. “He is a retired firefighter knowledgeable about safety and his support as a volunteer driver helps our small team host large groups. He jumps right in on difficult tasks and is happy to put in a long day in the field.” 

Young’s only critique is that there is just one Witkowski.  

“We’d like to clone him,” Young joked.  

There are countless ways to support the Conservancy’s work as a volunteer. Whether it’s as an individual or group, young or old, every helping hand makes a difference. Click here to connect with the Volunteer department and make your own positive impact.