top of page
STARTHROWER hot website draft (3).png

The Story

STARTHROWER hot website draft (28).png

Our Inspiration

STARTHROWER hot website draft (28).png
"I made a difference for that one. "

"

One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a young girl picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean.

 

Approaching the girl, he asked, "What are you doing?" 

She replied, "Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up, the sun is hot, and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them back, they'll die." 

The man said, "don't you realize there are miles and miles of beach and thousands of starfish? You can't make a difference!"
 
After listening politely, the girl bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, she said "I made a difference for that one."

The man thought about this for a moment and then started picking up starfish and throwing them back into the ocean.

Other people on the beach were watching and some came over and started throwing starfish into the ocean. 

"

Why It Matters

STARTHROWER hot website draft (6).png

This simple yet powerful story has become a metaphor for the idea that even small acts of kindness and compassion can make a significant impact on the lives of others. It serves as a reminder that every one of  us has the power to make a difference, no matter how small our actions may seem.

STARTHROWER hot website draft (31).png

In the spirit of The Star Thrower , we turned our care towards five forms of life that share this land. 

Each carries its own challenges in today's world, and within the preserve, each is offered space to flourish.

Discover how native plants and small gardens restore beauty and biodiversity.

BUTTERFLIES

Explore meadows, orchards, and tree trails that celebrate the richness of life.

FLORA

Build birdhouses, study habitats, and invite song back into the skies.

BIRDS

Learn the art and purpose of beekeeping, pollination, and honey harvest.

HONEYBEES
STARTHROWER hot website draft (32).png
STARTHROWER hot website draft (32).png

Learn the art and purpose of beekeeping, pollination, and honey harvest.

PEOPLE

When the property was first discovered, it was imagined as a quiet retreat. Over time, the vision has grown.

The land itself calls for something more, a refuge for learning, healing, and connection.  Today, the Preserve stands as a living symbol of that transformation: a place where people and the natural world flourish together.

WORKSHOPS & PROGRAMS

STARTHROWER hot website draft (33).png

The Preserve offers seasonal workshops designed to inspire curiosity, stewardship, and peace. Participants of all ages are invited to learn, create, and grow in harmony with the land.

  • Beekeeping & Honey Harvest

  • Orchard Care & Canning

  • Birdhouse Building

  • Pollinator Garden Design

  • Tree Identification & Ecology

  • Nature & Faith Retreats

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

From planting and tending to teaching and guiding, every contribution strengthens both the ecosystem and the community.

LOCATION

7550 Tapps Ford Road Amissville, VA 20106

GENERAL INQUIRIES

Become A Star Thrower

Each act of care, whether planting, guiding, or giving your time,

becomes part of the healing that makes this place flourish.

LOCATION

7550 Tapps Ford Road Amissville, VA 20106

GENERAL INQUIRIES
STARTHROWER hot website draft (34).png
5.png

Privacy Policy
Accessibility Statement
© 2025 by The Starfish Preserve

bottom of page