06/04/2026
We'd like to congratulate Kari Lavoie of Charleston County Parks on receiving the ELITE Leadership Award, which recognizes individuals who champion aquatic safety, foster strong safety cultures, and demonstrate exceptional leadership.
Kari began her lifeguarding career in 2008 at Whirlinโ Waters. In 2014, she advanced into a supervisory role, serving as a supervisor until 2019, when she was hired as the Aquatics Aide/Waterpark Trainer. In May 2021, Kari transitioned to managing the ocean rescue lifeguards at Folly Beach. Her time there was brief, as she was hired in February 2022 as the Safety Program Coordinator (now Emergency Services Coordinator), where she assisted Nikki with the Junior Lifeguard Program, Ocean Rescue, and Waterpark Training Programs. Following Nikkiโs retirement, Kari was promoted to Emergency Services Manager in April 2024.
Kariโs dedication, leadership, and commitment to aquatic safety have made a lasting impact on her team and community. We are proud to work alongside Kari and the entire Charleston County team