People with Purpose: Kelvin Cooper

Occupation:
Retired senior vice president of Pfizer in the research and development division. Owner of KC Pharma Consulting and board member of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Age: 60

Years involved: Four years. “I started as a horticulture and botany volunteer as soon as we moved to Sarasota in 2011. I still volunteer in the gardens and am now a trustee.”

Fun Facts: Cooper has a bonsai collection and plays bass in the local band, sToneFish.

"Giving back to the community gives me a sense of purpose and a great deal of satisfaction in seeing an organization succeed and make progress. It also allows me to meet new people and continue to learn and stay active, both physically and mentally. The rewards are considerable."