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The Charleston Parks Conservancy is expanding its team with four strategic hires—a full-time Volunteer Manager, a Marketing Manager, and two part-time horticulturists—to deepen community engagement and support the care of Charleston’s 26 parks, gardens, and trails. These new roles reflect the nonprofit’s continued investment in public park stewardship at a time of growing impact, marked by the planting of over 46,000 plants and 1,000 trees, the donation of two tons of fresh produce to support local food access, and more than 180 hours of free community programming in 2024 alone.
With 90% of its funding sourced from private and corporate donations, the Conservancy relies on strategic staffing, strong community partnerships, and generous donors to sustain and scale its mission. The expanded team strengthens the organization’s capacity for seasonal plantings, volunteer support, and public outreach, ensuring Charleston’s parks remain vibrant, resilient, and welcoming as demand and participation continue to grow.
“The strength of our work lies in people—those who give, those who serve, and those who help us grow,” said Darlene Heater, CEO and Executive Director of Charleston Parks Conservancy. “These new roles are an investment in our ability to nurture community connections and uphold a high standard of park care across the city.”
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Collin Howell– Volunteer Manager
Collin will lead the development and day-to-day coordination of the Conservancy’s volunteer program, which engages hundreds of community members each year. In this role, he will focus on strengthening internal systems, improving communication and scheduling, and building a more streamlined, inclusive, and rewarding volunteer experience. With a goal of expanding participation and deepening community involvement, Collin will play a key role in aligning volunteer efforts with the Conservancy’s growing park stewardship needs.
Sydney Haymond– Marketing Manager
Sydney joins the team to guide the Conservancy’s marketing and communications efforts. She will lead campaigns that promote events, celebrate donor and volunteer impact, and raise awareness about the Conservancy’s mission.
Sydney spent six years working in New York City in a variety of roles. Beginning her career as the assistant to the editor in chief at InStyle Magazine, she spent four years doing everything from writing stories for the monthly magazine and website to coordinating large-scale events. She then moved on to work in both marketing and public relations roles, for both a restaurant and event space in New York’s SoHo neighborhood and a well-respected PR agency. After years spent in the city’s rat race, she decided it was time to return to the south and apply her skills to a role that would make more of an impact in the community.
Sarra Sobchuk and Evan Soto – Horticulturists
Sarra and Evan bring valuable expertise to the Conservancy’s horticulture team. As part-time horticulturists, they will support seasonal plantings, garden design, and the long-term health of Charleston’s public landscapes, helping to ensure that parks and gardens remain vibrant, beautiful, and resilient throughout the year.
For more information about the Charleston Parks Conservancy’s initiatives, events, and opportunities to support its mission, visit www.
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