Volunteer Spotlight - Darcy O'Neill

How long have you volunteered with SFVI?	About three and a half years, since July 2013.
Why did you become involved?	To involve myself in the local surf community and to become a better environmental citizen.
What are you most excited about working on with SFVI in 2017?	As treasurer I am lucky to have some involvement in all campaigns and programs to provide financial oversight and administration. I can say that our organization has many exciting and valuable initiatives on the go right now! Personally I am very excited about the development of surf etiquette signs for the South Island, as well as the growth potential of Blue Water Task Force.
What’s your favourite outdoor activity?	Surfing and learning to surf better!
What is the #1 thing you are doing to save our oceans?	Well two things: 1) Cloth diapering—not as daunting as you may think! 2) Structuring life to be near work and the amenities, most of my fossil fuel usage is discretionary and for leisure purposes (surfing).
What is your #1 tip to reduce single-use plastics?	Eat better! Most whole foods use very little packaging, or none at all. Support local grocers and growers who enable you to eat without creating waste.
Name a local business or person you support because of their environmental practices.	Tough to name just one individual. I am motivated by every individual on the SFVI executive who contribute countless unpaid hours towards environmental stewardship as well as building our Surfrider community.I have had the pleasure of getting to know Craig Candler and Carolyn Whittaker at The Firelight Group over the past year. The Firelight Group has supported Surfrider both fiscally and spiritually over the years; I think that in many ways they have bolstered Surfrider VI’s efficacy as an organization. Craig and Carolyn are an inspiration to my own family, seeing how they manage a healthy family, social, and adventurous lifestyle with sustainable practices.
Anything to add?	For small space living, and family surf adventures, you can follow along on our blog: www.smallswell.com or @smallswell on Instagram.