Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast Foundation
Supporting Youth and Community at Washington Oaks
The Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast Foundation continues its strong tradition of community service by supporting the annual Earth Day Celebration at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. Each year, the Foundation provides a meaningful donation dedicated to children’s activities and educational projects that take place during this special event.
Kiwanis members actively volunteer their time and energy, creating a welcoming and engaging environment for children and families. Volunteers assist in the play camp area, help with environmental learning activities, and lead interactive experiences such as games, crafts, and painting.
A highlight of the children’s area is the Painting Board, generously donated by Dr. Dick Conkling. This creative space allows children to express themselves through art while connecting with nature. Leadership for this project is guided by Kiwanis Chairperson and Team Leader Ed Pruitt, whose dedication helps ensure the success of the event each year.
37th Annual Earth Day Celebration – April 2026
In partnership with Friends of Washington Oaks, the park will host its 37th Annual Earth Day Celebration in April 2026. This one-day event brings together the community for a vibrant celebration of nature, education, and environmental stewardship.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Live entertainment and cultural performances
- Living history re-enactors
- Environmental education exhibits
- Arts and crafts vendors
- A youth section sponsored by Kiwanis, focused on environmental awareness and hands-on learning
- The Friends of Washington Oaks Photo Contest showcase
- Chance drawings with exciting prizes
- A unique gift shop featuring handcrafted items
Guests will also find a variety of food options, including the popular Friends Bake Sale, as well as a Plant Sale offering Florida-native plants from the park’s greenhouse-perfect for gardening enthusiasts.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is one of Florida’s most unique coastal parks, known for its rare coquina rock shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean-one of the few places where this natural formation can be seen above the waterline.
Originally part of a private estate developed in the 1930s by Owen D. Young, a prominent industrialist, the property was later acquired by the State of Florida and transformed into a public park. Today, it features beautifully maintained formal gardens, including rose gardens, reflection ponds, and shaded oak hammocks that offer a peaceful retreat for visitors.
The park stands as a living example of Florida’s natural and cultural heritage, blending coastal ecosystems with historic landscape design.
Admission Information
Special Earth Day admission is approximately $10 per vehicle. “Volunteers don’t pay”
A Lasting Impact
Through its continued partnership with Washington Oaks, the Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast Foundation demonstrates its unwavering commitment to serving children and strengthening the community. By supporting environmental education, creativity, and hands-on experiences, Kiwanis helps inspire the next generation to appreciate, protect, and care for the world around them.
If you are interested in volunteering for this amazing project. Let us know, or Ed Pruitt.
Thank you for your dedication.
