As a longtime resident of Orillia and Simcoe County, I’ve watched our community grow, change and develop over time. Some of my favourite places in town – restaurants, stores, forests and playgrounds –are still here while others have been replaced or removed entirely.
When massive stands of trees are removed, it hurts. When wetlands are filled in to build houses, it makes me angry.
But there is still hope.
Today, I am in a constant state of awe and inspiration at the people who support the work of The Couchiching Conservancy. In 23 years, volunteers, supporters and regular people in our community with a passion for our planet have helped to acquire and protect thousands of acres of land in the region. It’s their passion for this work, and their dedication that keeps me inspired and keeps me moving forward. It is a reassuring feeling to know that some of the places that I care for will be protected forever.
Overall support for environmental non-profits is pretty dismal. According to Charity Intelligence, “Canadian donors care more about Canada’s environment than ever before. Philanthropic support for environment charities has grown to an estimated $286 million, although this still only represents roughly 2% of total Canadian giving.” In 2010, $10.6 billion dollars were donated to Canadian charities (Statistics Canada).
Take a minute to let that sink in. 2% of all giving. Only 2%. The last time I checked, 100% of us need air…need water…need nature to survive and thrive. Learning that scares me, but together we can change that.
[wc_row][wc_column size=”one-half” position=”first”]Take a minute to let that sink in. 2% of all giving. Only 2%. The last time I checked, 100% of us need air…need water…need nature to survive and thrive. Learning that scares me, but together we can change that.
This month, the Conservancy has an exciting opportunity. If 25 people sign up as monthly givers by November 30, it will trigger a $5,000 gift for our conservation efforts.
[/wc_column][wc_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]This month, the Conservancy has an exciting opportunity. If 25 people sign up as monthly givers by November 30, it will trigger a $5,000 gift for our conservation efforts.
[/wc_column][/wc_row]This challenge comes from an anonymous member of our Advisory Council. As you can imagine, this is pretty exciting. This donation could do a lot for our organization and significantly impact our work to protect more wild places.Monthly giving is one of the best ways to support the non-profit that is doing work you care about. This form of giving helps plan your giving for the year, reduces paperwork and provides the Conservancy with stable support. I’m a monthly giver, and it has made my giving a lot easier. Life is always busy, and setting up monthly giving once ensures that I’m supporting the causes I care for. Making one large gift isn’t something that I would necessarily consider, but to split that donation over the course of a year makes it more feasible for my budget. There is no need for the non-profit to send reminders each year, which reduces administrative costs and paperwork. Monthly giving can be linked to your bank account, credit card or online through Canada Helps.
If you are concerned about our disappearing species, the rampant development of our lands into box stores and sprawl – it’s time to act. If you believe in the mission to protect nature for future generations – for your children, your grandchildren and beyond – this is your chance. You can make a contribution to your community, your health and local green spaces by supporting our work. As an added bonus – for your kindness you’ll get a charitable tax receipt.
You can find out more about ways to support conservation efforts in our region by visiting our website, or give me a call at the office.
Tanya Clark is the Development Coordinator at The Couchiching Conservancy,
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