THE POWER OF PHILANTHROPY

If you spend time on the Ringling grounds, you may recognize this face. Wil Pearson has been a member and volunteer at the Ringling Museum since he made Florida his winter residence in 2002. Beginning as a tour guide, Wil has served the Ringling Museum as a greeter, an usher, a member of the Volunteer Services Advisory Council, and as an ad hoc member of the Ringling Museum Board of Directors. However, Wil speaks most fondly of the time he spends as a docent for Ca’ d’Zan, the Circus Museum, and touring children on school tours. Through the docent program, Wil was able to connect his passion and career in education with his volunteerism. Like many other volunteers, Wil built his “Sarasota Family” through friends he has made volunteering at the Ringling Museum.

“I am so honored to be a Ringling volunteer. Working as a docent, I have come to value the work done by the Education Department. They continue to strive to make the Ringling story come alive through training given to the volunteers. Giving the visitor here at the Museum the best possible experience is always at the forefront of their teaching. I am so pleased that I can play a very small role in helping to continue the excellent work of the Education Department here at the Ringling Museum.”