Meet Brett and Sharon McGinnis

In the 1980s, Brett and Sharon McGinnis frequently visited the Stuart area, where they developed a deep appreciation for the Indian River Lagoon. In the early 1990s, their careers led them to the Dallas-Fort Worth region, where they raised their family. Throughout their 25-year Texan residence, they revisited the area often, never forgetting how much they loved the Treasure Coast.

In 2019, after retiring and making Florida their permanent home, Brett and Sharon attended a Coastal Lecture series presented by Florida Oceanographic Society at the Blake Library. This experience ignited their interest in supporting the Society through volunteer work, and to advocate for the Indian River Lagoon and Florida's waterways.

"Florida Oceanographic is a great place to volunteer and support the health of Florida’s waterways," said Brett, who spends his volunteer time conducting weekly water testing at Twin Rivers Park and the Manatee Pocket boat dock. Sharon performs monthly seagrass surveys at Cove Road Park and Sandsprit Park. Additionally, she dedicates her time to cleaning the seagrass tanks at the Coastal Center every Tuesday. Beyond these responsibilities, Brett and Sharon take it upon themselves to remove litter from waterways and beaches during their kayaking and beachcombing excursions.

Since becoming volunteers in 2019, they have collectively contributed nearly 600 hours of their time. Brett and Sharon derive immense satisfaction from aiding the Indian River Lagoon and treasure the camaraderie of the friendly, like-minded individuals they have encountered through their involvement with Florida Oceanographic Society. They say being involved with the Coastal Center has made it very easy for them to advocate for the health of local waterways.

Snapshot:
Born: Brett was born in Hollywood, FL, and raised in Palm Beach Gardens. Sharon is originally from Pluckemin, NJ but moved to Davie, FL, when she was 10.

Hobbies: Sharon enjoys bicycling, knitting, reading, snorkeling, hiking, fishing and kayaking. Brett enjoys kayaking, diving, fishing, wood carving and hiking. Brett and their son spend 3-5 days every year hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Eventually they hope to cover most of the 2000+ mile trail.

College: Both hold degrees from Tarrant County college in Texas, and Brett has an electrical degree from NIT.

Favorite local restaurants: Our own kitchen. They both love to cook and create new dishes. Brett is also quite good at smoking meat and creating jalapeno inspired recipes.

Movies, TV, streaming series: Mostly historical and environmental documentaries as well as some extreme outdoors series.