Letter from the President

Dear Friends,

We live in undeniably challenging times, for people and the natural world upon which we depend. Nevertheless, my faith in positive change has never been stronger. Why? Because the world is full of courageous people who are confronting these challenges head on, and with strength of character, acting decisively to make the world a better, wilder, healthier place.

It is my great pride to work with some of these amazing people at the WILD Foundation. Our 2017-2018 annual report is as much a testament to their commitment and determination as it is a statement of our progress in defense of an abundantly wild planet.

It’s evidence, also, of your conviction, for all of our work belongs absolutely as much to our supporters as it does to our staff and associates. Thank you.

In acknowledgement of the obstacles we face and the strength we draw upon to overcome these difficulties, WILD’s staff has chosen the following phrase to inspire them throughout the year: “We persist so that nature prevails.” I’m hard-pressed to find a more apt summation of our resolve to forge a right relationship with nature, which is why this phrase is the theme of WILD’s 2018 year-end campaign. Learn more in our campaign video below.

I am pleased to announce that, despite the odds, 2018 has seen some extraordinary gains for wilderness and people. Some of these you will find in the following updates, proving once again that what can seem like an impossible destination becomes, over time, not so daunting if we simply begin by putting one foot in front of the other.

Thank you for joining me and WILD on this journey. Earth is wilder because of you.

Yours in gratitude and persistence,

Vance G. Martin
President, WILD Foundation