For many of us, this year’s arrival of spring brings an increased feeling of renewal and hope. As we embark on a new year, it feels like many of the barriers that kept us apart due to the pandemic might actually begin to fade. The anticipation of seeing family, friends, and colleagues, in person, for possibly the first time in over a year is like waiting to see the first trillium emerge in Forest Park, a reminder of spring’s long-awaited arrival!
For our team at Forest Park Conservancy, this past year allowed us to learn, grow, and work together with partners and members to reflect on ways that our programs can better meet the increasing needs of Forest Park. We have strengthened our relationships with community organizations and gained a deeper understanding of the unique and beautiful ways that different cultures and communities connect with nature and Forest Park.
For those of you who have the opportunity to spend time in this amazing, unique place, you understand the intrinsic value of Forest Park; the feeling you get every time you step onto its trails and the piece of it you take with you and hold onto to, every time you leave. But what if you did not have access to that feeling or experience? What if your skin color, gender, or the way you look made you feel like you may not be safe or welcome in a place like Forest Park? These are the things that keep me up at night.
We are working on strategies to address critical issues like equitable access and eliminate racist, harmful behavior in Forest Park. These are not easy or simple issues to address but we are certain that for Forest Park to remain healthy and for the organization and our communities to continue to thrive, Forest Park must be accessible and safe for everyone. We are working hard to ensure that our programs are inclusive and diverse and continue to foster and educate the next generation of stewards of Forest Park.
We believe in developing a culture in Forest Park where people from all walks of life feel welcome, safe, and have access to the mental, physical and healing benefits Forest Park provides.
We are building capacity to maintain and improve more miles of trail, provide more educational opportunities for people to learn about Forest Park’s natural and cultural history, and continue to be diligent about restoring native habitat.
Every time I visit Forest Park, every mile of trail I walk, I think about people. I think about all the hands who have picked up a tool and helped make it possible for me to walk on this trail, the countless members whose donations make that work possible, and the sound of people connecting through conversation laughter and sometimes shared silence. Most of all, it is the connectedness that so many of you have to Forest Park, each other and the natural world around us that makes me confident, that together, we will ensure Forest Park and our communities thrive. Together we can create a culture in Forest Park where every single one of us does our part to make everyone feel welcome and safe.
Every donation to the Forest Park Conservancy helps provide the critical funds necessary to care for the trails and habitat that make Forest Park special. Your support provides programs for people to learn and deepen their connection to it and allows you to have that unique feeling, whatever it may be, every time you step into Forest Park.
We cannot do this without you! Thank you for every dollar and every hand that has helped us take care of Forest Park.
With gratitude for your support,
Renée Myers
Executive Director
P.S. Donate here to support our work. Your contributions support a healthy Forest Park for all.