Finding Solutions: Phinizy Center finds hope while repairing ‘hidden gem’
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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Like many places, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is recovering after the storm.
They opened their gates Saturday after receiving damage to some of their trails.
With a large fundraiser set for Thursday, they’re finding solutions in how they can repair what they call “a hidden gem.”
Damage from the storm has left a couple of trails at Phinizy’s Nature Park closed.
“Just like a lot of the CSRA, we had a lot of damage to our trails due to a lot of trees that have fallen,” said Alicia Sweat, executive director of Phinizy Center for water sciences.
The park opened back up Saturday after volunteers stepped up to the plate.
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The Salvation Army of Aiken County is looking ahead to the holidays and gearing up for this year’s Angel Tree Program, but they hit a roadblock along the way.
“We have been able to open our Wetlands Trail because of volunteers that came out with chainsaws once their homes were recovered and okay. I don’t think people understand the importance of volunteers. We depend on them since we are a very small staff,” said Sweat.
She says it’s now a waiting game when it comes to repairing the two trails closed.
“There’s a lot of companies out there and are busy repairing homes which I think is more important, so we are waiting for the companies to come out and help and us and also the funding we didn’t budget or plan for this,” said Sweat.
And raising funds is important since they are a non-profit organization.
With the park now open, they are able to host the 26th Swamp Soiree on Thursday.
It’s their largest fundraiser where music, food, drinks and raffle items will be available for guests.
GAP Ministries helps those in need as others give to them
The Sanctuary at GAP Ministries is full of donated items from other groups who are assisting in recovery efforts after the storm.
“Those sponsors and ers are able to see the park post Hurricane Helene. It looks a little bit different, but I think the mark of Augusta does too. I think this one will be different, but in a good way,” said Sweat.
Phinizy offers so much beyond just nature, but also educational opportunities for kids up to adults.
Sweat says it really is a special place and encourages everyone to come out.
“People never realize they’re in the middle of Augusta when they come out here because you just feel like you’re in the middle of a beautiful nature park and able to enjoy all that has to offer,” she said.
Tickets for the Swamp Soiree are still available.
The park will close at 12 p.m. on Thursday to get ready for the event.
You can always donate to help the Phinizy Center.
Visit https://phinizycenter.org/donate/ to donate or buy tickets to the event.
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