Coastal Watch holds volunteer day at Captiva chapel
On Nov. 16, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s Coastal Watch hosted a special volunteer day at the Captiva Chapel by the Sea, with 17 volunteers helping to restore the historic landmark.
Flooding, severe winds and sand overwash from Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused significant damage to Captiva. Milton displaced a massive amount of sand, burying the chapel cemetery by several feet in some areas. When the chapel reached out for assistance, Coastal Watch organized the event.
The volunteers worked to carefully hand-dig the sand covering the cemetery. It was transported to a nearby staging site, ensuring the cemetery’s preservation and respecting its historical significance.
“This cleanup was more than just removing sand — it was about bringing the Captiva community together to restore a piece of its history,” Coastal Watch Director Kealy Pfau said. “Seeing volunteers work so carefully and compassionately was truly inspiring.”
“Coastal Watch is proud to have focused our efforts on Captiva for this project, especially after witnessing the significant impacts of these recent storms,” she added. “There’s still much to do, and we look forward to continuing to support Captiva in its recovery. Together, we can rebuild and protect what makes this island so special.”
The chapel has embarked on a recovery campaign to restore its grounds, including the building, cemetery, parsonage and surrounding property. The construction, excavation and tree removal costs are estimated at $150,000. Donations can be made at https://www.captivachapel.com/, via its Facebook page or sending checks to Captiva Chapel By The Sea Treasurer, Box 188, Captiva, FL 33924.
Coastal Watch thanked those who took part in the volunteer day.
“While we made great progress at Chapel by the Sea, the road to recovery for Captiva is far from over. Coastal Watch remains committed to aiding the island in its restoration efforts,” Pfau said. “We are grateful for the opportunity to focus our efforts on Captiva and look forward to continuing this essential work in the future.”
The Captiva Chapel by the Sea is at 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva.