About Us
Friends of Lovers Key (FOLK) helps protect, preserve and support Lovers Key State Park.
In 1996, the Lovers Key Recreational Area merged with Carl E. Johnson County Park, and Lovers Key State Park was born. Friends of Lovers Key incorporated during this same time as a non-profit organization.
Friends of Lovers Key (FOLK) is a 501(c)3, state sanctioned, citizen support organization (CSO) that directly supports the mission of Lovers Key State Park (LKSP). We are authorized to raise funds in support of Lovers Key State Park's objectives through donations, grants and merchandise sales.
The mission of Friends of Lovers Key is helping to protect, preserve and support Lovers Key State Park. FOLK works with Park staff and our volunteers to safeguard natural and cultural resources while providing recreational and educational opportunities for the public. These actions are a balancing act that ensures the health of the park for both current and future generations.
What is a CSO?
A Citizen Support Organization (CSO) is a non-profit corporation given special status by Florida law to raise funds, seek and receive grants, accept gifts, bequests of money and tangible real property on behalf of their host organization.
There are 175 state parks in Florida encompassing over 800,000 acres of land for recreation, camping, conservation and preservation of historic landmarks.
There are currently 86 CSOs working on behalf of Florida state parks to:
- Raise money for park programs and initiatives
- Increase community awareness and involvement in park programs
- Recruiting volunteers to help with special projects
- Serve as guides and docents to conduct tours and programs
- Develop their own programs and events
- Market to the community
Your membership or donation to FOLK helps support our efforts and is tax deductible.
