| Stephen FosteRCitizen Supportorganization |
 Incorporated in 1988, the stephen foster citizen support organization is one of the oldest CSO’s within the Florida Park Service, and has provided invaluable assistance in enhancing, protecting and promoting stephen foster folk culture center and Big shoals state parks
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About the csoThe Stephen Foster Citizen Support Organization (CSO) is a 501 (c)(3) Florida not-for-profit organization dedicated to working with the Florida Park Service to enhance, protect and promote Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park and Big Shoals State Park. The goal of the Stephen Foster CSO is to support the mission of Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, particularly the preservation of Florida's folk history, through fund raising, programs and events developed in cooperation with the Park Manager. The group interacts with local related organizations through good communications and assistance with volunteerism. The CSO assists with the preservation of nature, history and culture of Stephen Foster and Big Shoals State Parks by playing a vital role in preserving these gems when combined, preserve over 2,500 acres of land along the historic Suwannee River. |
Adding enhancements to the Parks for visitor’s enjoyment such as, two playgrounds, washers and dryers in the campground area, a picnic pavilion in the picnic area and many more enhancements to help the park staff maintain the Parks.
Sponsoring educational events and park programming throughout the year | Provide regular support for the park’s visitor service needs, maintenance needs, recreational and educational programsand events. |
In 2017, the CSO embarked upon its largest project to date- the restoration of the Stephen Memorial Carillon - Save Our Bells! Restoration of the Carillon along with maintenance and restoration of other park exhibits in the Museum and Carillon tower are estimated to cost more than $393,500. Phase I has been completed of one set of tubular bells to be operational in 2024. The upgraded system will be like an electronic keyboard; Carillon can play more songs and longer.
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Phase I Goal Met. Bells will be ready in 2024
Current Grant of $300,000 was raised to replace one set of bells! |
Upcoming CSO MeetingsThe Stephen Foster CSO Board of Directors meets the third Monday of February, April, June, August and October. CSO membership meetings are held the third Monday of each month in January, March, May, July, September and November. All meetings are open to the public and everyone is invited. Help our park by completing a survey on the Budget for the Florida Cultural Alliance for Applicant to State Arts and Culture Grants for 2025. Click the link below: | There's Always Something Going on...Upcoming events
| Board membersPresident: BeBe Willis Vice President: Muna Hammer Treasurer: Greg Poole Secretary: Mike Radel Board Members Shauna Adams Bruce Witton Mick Shea |