Hi friends,
I’m reaching out to you today with a reminder that there is much to be hopeful for and that hope, in action, has a tendency to spread like the roots of the willows we plant.
The work of the Oldman Watershed Council (OWC) is rooted in hope and we create it through our actions. Our 90+ restoration projects have built ecological resilience across the region and our educational programming continues to enhance watershed awareness and understanding to folks of all ages. Last year alone we spoke to 2,900 people face to face, spreading the message that we all rely on the same watershed and that by working together we can ensure it prospers for the long term. Our membership increased 14% and there is great hope in knowing that our network of watershed stewards—like you—continues to grow.
We also find hope in the support we receive from our monthly and annual donors. Their act of generosity is critical to our success and longevity. Last year our donors allowed us to increase our partnerships by 60% to 194 partners from 12 diverse sectors, greatly amplifying our achievements through collaboration. Our capacity is directly tied to our resources and support. By becoming a donor today, you can contribute to boots-on-the-ground work that is truly making a difference. We see it grow with every willow that we plant. With each restoration site and educational initiative, we are giving and receiving hope. We are seeding a resilient future.
Since joining the OWC team in December it has been a hope-filled experience connecting with OWC donors. Hearing about what is important to them and what first spurred them to donate has been heartwarming and certainly reflective of the infectious nature of hopefulness. A rancher near Coleman said he donates because of the OWC’s critical work in assisting land managers in implementing best practices that protect the creeks running through their wind swept grasslands, for all of us downstream.
Seeing pictures and videos of OWC staff and volunteers at breathtaking vistas from the 2024 field season fills me with hope for the year ahead. It is exciting to see people learning together and taking collective action while volunteering for restoration and monitoring activities. Working together side by side to restore a creek builds hope for all involved, and we invite you to join us.
Your support is critical as we continue our efforts to improve the health of our mountains, grasslands and waterways. Please consider making a donation on our website, through CanadaHelps, mail or sent via Interac transfer. The Government of Canada has extended the deadline for 2024 charitable tax receipts until February 28, so there’s still time to invest in your watershed while reducing your taxes.
Thank you for your ongoing support at this tumultuous time, and know that we will continue to create hope through action. If you would like to talk about how you can get involved, I would love to meet with you over coffee or on the phone.
- Jana MacKenzie, Development Manager
Contact OWC by replying to this email, or calling 403-330-1346.