Join our Circle of Sustaining Donors

Do you recall September 20th, 2019? That was the day 1.5 million youth around the world walked out of their schools to demand urgent action on climate change. Did you feel the power of their outrage, grief, and conviction? I did.

And I felt something else that day, too. Commitment. And… hope.

You see, September 20th was also the first day of Vashon Wilderness Program, and 9-year old Annie came bounding into the meadow that morning. Bird song rang out in sweet harmony with her infectious giggles. She was happy to return to her beloved 400 acre outdoor classroom.

She didn’t seem phased, though, when she tripped. She’s used to falling down: Annie has sensory processing disorder. She quickly brushed off the mud, and ran to join the game of “Fire Keeper.” She loves quietly sneaking into the center of the circle to snatch the bells without getting caught. And no wonder: this kind of fun helps her quiet her mind and focus her attention, something that also doesn’t come easily for her. 

When you support Vashon Wilderness Program’s vital nature connection work, you ensure kids like Annie experience the healing effects of nature. Please donate today.

While the effort to protect our collective future persists, Annie depends on the natural world right now -- to soothe her brain and strengthen her resiliency, and to help her body relax and connect with friends and other living beings. And, she depends on guidance from her compassionate nature mentors to develop an abiding love for what she already knows in her being is vital to protect: a deep relationship with the natural world, one of reciprocity and well-being. 

Nearly 4,500 people of all ages and abilities, have transformed through VWP’s deep nature connection mentoring programs. Over 34% of families receive scholarship assistance, and donors like you have made sure no family has ever been turned away! 

To keep our programs accessible as we expand, we’re asking for your help to meet our goal to raise $30,000. Please join our circle of Sustaining Donors today. Your monthly contribution will help Annie and hundreds more children next year have vital nature connection experiences. 

These times demand that you and I stand firm in our values, and take action to leave our world a little better than we found it. Please give the gift of nature today. Give as generously as you can – every donation makes a difference!

With Commitment, and Hope, 

Stacey Hinden

Executive Director

P.S. Annie depends on programs like Vashon Wilderness Program to help guide her journey from childhood through adolescence. Can you help her become the compassionate protector our Earth needs?Please make your donation to VWP today!