DEBBIE HELSEL, CURATOR
Debbie grew up in Orlando playing in the woods across the street from her home. She always knew she wanted to work with wildlife, but wasn’t sure how to make it happen. In early 1990, she took a job with Orange County Animal Services. During torientation at the shelter, she was told that she might at some point be working directly with Carmen Shaw (Founder of Back to Nature) She knew the name because she had spoken with Carmen after seeing an article in the newspaper about the oil spill and that Carmen was going to Alaska to help. Debbie spent the next nine years volunteering most evenings after work and almost every weekend. It was then that a rare opportunity presented itself for Debbie to be paid staff. She left the position with the county and followed her heart to the refuge. “I have practically grown up with the animals at the refuge and they are my family, as well as the volunteers, Carmen and her family. Carmen took me under her wing all those years ago and has entrusted me with her life’s work. What a privilege and a blessing it has been! I am looking very forward to the next chapter in our book for the refuge, and it is going to be an even more amazing journey than it has already been!”
KELLY GECKLER, ASSISTANT CURATOR
Kelly, a UCF graduate with a degree in psychology, began as a volunteer at Back to Nature in October 2002. Always having a love for animals and a desire to work in the wildlife field, she found Back to Nature a great place to gain experience. By putting her degree to some use, she began researching some ways to expand the wildlife enrichment program for the
permanent residents of the refuge. In January 2006, Kelly accepted the assistant curator position at the refuge. “Once I got to know these animals and understand their cause, I felt as if I would be turning my back on them (if I took a position elsewhere). Now, I get to see them and help everyday. I’m happy
to call this place my home and my career.”
BILLY LEDFORD
Ever since he was a child, Billy knew he wanted to work with wild animals. Being raised around the woods, he had ample time to learn the habits of Florida’s wildlife. During the aftermath of Hurricane Charley, he was on his way home and noticed a small opossum in a puddle and rescued the little guy! He began hunting for a place to take him and after several hours, he found Back to Nature’s website. He and his wife, Valerie, drove to the refuge. He saw our permanent residents and became interested in volunteering. Billy spent every Saturday after that point at the refuge. A year later the rare opportunity for a paid position became available. Billy happily accepted. He enjoys working with the people and animals at Back to Nature and hopes to be here for many years to come.”
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