I grew up paddling the rivers in the Shenandoah Valley and hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, surrounded by the natural world. I took it for granted that the government would take care of the environment that was so much a part of my life. Later, serving in Vietnam, I learned the hard way that we cannot simply accept the choices of leaders—we must engage, speak out, and take an active role in shaping the policies that affect our world.
That understanding led me to a lifetime of advocacy—from joining state and national conservation groups to leading NRCM for 27 years—and as a Maine Conservation Voters board member for 5 years.
MCV builds the political infrastructure that ensures environmental laws protecting Maine are passed, defended, and enforced. In a world where polluting industries now dominate the conversation and try to run roughshod over the environment, citizen-led organizations like MCV are essential to keeping the public interest front and center.
That is why your gift to MCV matters this Giving Tuesday. It is an investment in a future where individuals like you and me have a say in shaping our environmental future.
Thank you for standing with us today, and every day.
With gratitude,
