September 26, 2025

Welcome to the Friday Waypoint where you'll find the latest updates about opportunities & activities with the Florida Trail Association.

Each year, FTA takes time to celebrate members of our Next Generation Coalition who are graduating from college. These young leaders have dedicated their time and talents to the Florida Trail while balancing academic and personal commitments. They are not only volunteers: they’re collaborators, community builders, and the future of outdoor stewardship.

This year, we are proud to recognize three incredible graduates whose contributions have strengthened the Next Gen program and expanded the reach of the Florida Trail.

🎓 Graduate Spotlights

🌿 Aisleen Turner

From joining Next Gen in 2023 to leading the Marketing & Education Committee, Aisleen quickly became a leader. Her hands-on experience with trail maintenance and social media engagement has prepared her for her next adventure: an internship cataloging invasive species in Maryland and her first-ever thru-hike on the Superior Hiking Trail, followed by the Pacific Crest Trail.

🌿 Madison Beverly

With a passion for stewardship, Madison represented FTA at Hike the Hill in Washington, D.C., advocating for trails at the national level. A University of Central Florida graduate in Biology and Theatre, she is headed to Seattle to lead youth crews in conservation projects.

🌿 Stephanie Ochoa

Stephanie found her place in Next Gen by bravely stepping into a chapter meeting, where she was warmly welcomed. She went on to build connections, explore Florida’s ecology, and deepen her passion for outdoor education. She looks forward to a career inspiring others through conservation.

Youth engagement is essential to the future of the Florida Trail. These graduates have shown what’s possible when young people are given space to lead, contribute, and grow. We are grateful for their dedication and excited to see where the trail takes them next.

💚 To Aisleen, Madison, and Stephanie—thank you for your consistency, creativity, and commitment. You’ve left your mark on Next Gen, and we can’t wait to see your journeys unfold!

✨ New FT Ornament/Bag Tag

Show off your Florida Trail pride year-round! This lightweight, colorful 2.5" x 2.5" ornament doubles as a bag tag—perfect for your pack, your holiday tree, or anywhere you want a pop of FT spirit.

➡️ Order yours today!

🐾 Florida Trail Tails Sticker

Add some trail spirit to your gear with this fun 3″ sticker featuring the colorful animals (and tails!) of the Florida Trail. Perfect for water bottles, laptops, or anywhere you want to show your FT love.

➡️ Grab yours and rep the Trail everywhere you go!

🌿 Want to Know What Our Partners Are Up To?

From community events to workshops and new program offerings, there's always something going on.

👉 Click here to see upcoming events and opportunities.

Are you hosting an event you'd like us to share?

📣 Fill out this form to share it with us!

From races to community gatherings, these events raise vital funds to protect and maintain the Florida Trail. By joining in, you’re directly supporting the Trail you love.

👉Click here to check out upcoming events.

Have an event to share? Reach out to tisha@floridatrail.org