VERO BEACH — Leaders from the Indian River Land Trust will outline the organization’s efforts to preserve the Indian River Lagoon during a luncheon hosted by the Vero Beach branch of the American Association of University Women.
The event, set for 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2555 58th Ave., features Executive Director Kenneth Grudens and Chief Development Officer Melissa DePriest as speakers.
Tickets cost $25 and are available at here! The Registration deadline of Jan. 12.
Formed in 1990, the land trust focuses on conserving land that safeguards the lagoon, a key feature of Indian River County. Its work includes preserving habitats, protecting scenic waterfronts and ensuring public access across the county.
The discussion comes on the heels of the county’s 2025 centennial celebration, which highlighted the lagoon’s role in local identity. Grudens, who joined the trust in 2004, has led programs to protect natural resources and special sites. DePriest, a lifelong Florida resident, manages philanthropy and builds community partnerships to support those initiatives.
Organizers emphasize the lagoon’s importance to the region’s economy and quality of life, drawing on the sentiment that “this land is your land; this land is our land.” The trust engages residents in restoration projects to maintain the estuary’s health.
AAUW-Vero Beach, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, directs all proceeds from the luncheon toward scholarships for women and girls in Indian River County.
