Text and Photos by Lena Newton
Wesley Copelin of Port Orange started Volusia County Rocks because he thinks there is too much negativity in the world. Finding the rocks is like a treasure hunt because no one, except the “rocker,” knows exactly where they are hidden or when they’ll find one.
It also is a great way for kids and parents to bond together, to go outside and be active, instead of staying home with their electronics.
But these rocks are not restricted to Copelin’s Facebook page, Volusia County Rocks. Since his page debuted 18 months ago, hundreds of similar Facebook pages have been created in different cities and counties.
The painted rocks can be found in local parks or even inside a grocery store. Anyone finding a painted rock, can look on the back and see what group it is from. Some people like to initial the rocks as well to indicate who painted it.
Then there are “traveling” rocks, which are created in Volusia County but wind up in another state. Those who find a rock can keep it, hide it or take it back to wherever they live and hide it again.