Since launching the Legacy Fund Campaign in January 2008, The Conservation Alliance has raised $2.72 million in contributions and commitments. New gifts from KEEN, Inc., CamelBak, Leisure Trends, Stanley Outdoors, and several individuals have moved the total closer to the $3.5-million goal.
The Conservation Alliance Legacy fund is an endowment that, once fully funded, will provide a permanent source of operational funding for the organization. The Alliance launched the campaign in January 2008 with initial commitments from The North Face, REI, Merrell, Dansko, Patagonia, CamelBak, and former board president Menno van Wyk. The Legacy Fund now holds contributions from 34 companies and individuals.
"Our members are rising to a steep challenge because they want The Conservation Alliance to be a permanent force in the outdoor industry," said John Sterling, Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance.
Though the economic crisis has made that challenge steeper, the Alliance plans to conclude a successful endowment campaign in August 2009.
"We're still hoping to reach our $3.5-million goal by reminding people that, despite the sputtering economy, the political landscape for conservation has never been this good," said Sterling. "Now is the time to invest in conservation."
For more information on The Conservation Alliance Legacy Fund, see www.conservationalliance.com/legacy.