About Us
A foundation built for the Keys' stories
The Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization conserving the history, culture, and ecosystems of the Keys.
Our strategic pillars
Conserve. Inspire. Engage.
These three commitments shape our exhibitions, education, collections, and role in the community.
Conserve
The history and ecosystems of the Florida Keys, and the record of both.
Inspire
Every child in the Keys through hands-on discovery of these islands.
Engage
Our community by making the museum a gathering place for events, exhibits, and programming.
Our mission
The Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation mission is to conserve the history, culture, and ecosystems of the Keys by inspiring current and future generations to discover our islands through dynamic exhibits, innovative programs, and community events.
Our vision
A future in which the history, culture, and natural environment of the Florida Keys are protected, every child is inspired to discover the reefs, the railroad, and the stories of these islands, and all who live in or visit the Keys are engaged in keeping those stories alive.
Our work
Through exhibitions, research, children's learning, and public programs, we connect people with the history, waters, and ecosystems that make the Florida Keys unlike anywhere else.
Founded in 2013, the Foundation operates the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada — home to permanent exhibits, a research library, kids' learning experiences, and a full calendar of community programs.
The Center is located on the Islander Resort hotel property at 82100 Overseas Highway and is operated by the nonprofit Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation. Islander Resort is a valued partner across our work, supporting the Center's role as a place for exhibitions, education, preservation, and community connection.
By the numbers
- Founded
- 2013
- Location
- Islamorada
- Type
- 501(c)(3)
- Center
- 7,500 sq ft
Our team
People who make it happen
Our amazing volunteers
The Center runs on the generosity of our volunteers. They greet you at the front desk, answer questions in the galleries, help young discoverers get the most out of every hands-on experience, and show up for everything we do — from kids' camps and school field trips to lectures, fundraisers, and community celebrations.
Whatever the event, whatever the season, they are there — welcoming guests, setting up, pitching in, and representing the Center with warmth and pride. They are not staff; they are neighbors who believe in these islands' stories and give their time so everyone can share in them. We simply could not do this work without them, and we are proud to recognize everything they give.
Interested in joining them? We would love to have you. Write to info@keysdiscovery.com and tell us a little about yourself.
Lisa Bradeen
Lead Volunteer
Mrs. Phyllis
Volunteer
Chris Clark
Volunteer
Ellen Eisch
Volunteer
Standards, access & collaboration
Professional affiliations
We participate in professional museum networks and national access programs that strengthen our service to visitors and the community.
Professional membership
American Alliance of Museums
Member organization committed to museum standards and professional practice. Membership is distinct from AAM accreditation.
Professional membership
Florida Association of Museums
Part of Florida's statewide network supporting museums and museum professionals.
Access program
Museums for All
A participating museum in the national initiative expanding access to museums for families receiving food assistance.
Exhibit & program partners
Expertise rooted in the Keys
Home of the Center and a valued partner supporting our exhibitions, education, and community events.
Partner in creating Coral Reef Exploration, our permanent living-aquarium exhibit.
Partner in interpreting the history, ecology, and conservation of the Florida Keys flats fishery.
Governance
Our Board of Directors
The Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation is governed by a working board — and our board does far more than govern. From the front desk to the galleries, from fundraising galas to kids' camps, board members roll up their sleeves in every facet of the Center's success: shaping exhibitions, building community partnerships, welcoming school groups, and lending a hand at every event on our calendar.
Their commitment goes beyond time and energy. Over the last five years, our board members have personally contributed more than $500,000 in capital to the Foundation — underwriting exhibits, programs, and the day-to-day operation of the Center. This is a board that leads by example, and the Center would not be what it is today without them.
Richard Russell
Chairman
Bob Lodge
Vice Chairman
Erin Muir
Secretary
Scott Naz
Treasurer
Mary Beth Harris
Director
Whitney Trentine
Director
Dr M.P. Crosby
Director
Judy Lane
Director
Claudia Stober
Director
Kate DeLoach
Director
Joy Boyd
Director
Jason Richards
Director
To reach the Board, contact info@keysdiscovery.com.
Belong here
Become a member
Memberships begin at $75 and help conserve the Keys, inspire discovery, and keep our community engaged.
Explore membershipConserve · Inspire · Engage
Make a gift
Annual giving begins at $500 and sustains dynamic exhibits, innovative programs, community events, and the Keys Heritage Ledger.