Investing into ourselves, our partners and our communities
Summer is in full effect for us at Trees, Water & People (TWP). Summer is filled with beautiful weather giving us the opportunity to have family gatherings, explore the outdoors, relax and rejuvenate. But amongst these long-summer days, we remain committed to the importance of our work during this season.
Summer provides the privileges for us and our partners to steward and reconnect with the lands, communities and people. Practices such as farming, thinning forests and tree planting are all ways that we are reconnecting ourselves with the land, contributing to the overall health of lands and committing to work opportunities for people to be proud of. Through these efforts we have (and can continue to) create projects where local people can take leadership roles, contribute to the overall well-being of their communities and value their wisdom knowledge.
Our Indigenous Lands Program is graciously thankful for all the wisdom and knowledge that has been shared with us by our partners. Our relationships with Tribal partners are bi-directional and based on parallel growth - meaning that we are both invested in this work and committed to growing together. So when I think of our collaborative efforts, I feel privileged and thankful. This feeling comes innately because the people I work with, are contributing to a better work and life experience where I can find joy and meaning in the work itself.
Our partners within the U.S. are dedicated to their work, which puts the responsibility on TWP to be committed in supporting our partners. By investing into projects that holistically improve the entire ecosystem (humans included) we are developing a model of how conservation should be practiced and recognizing those around us that are contributing to us as people. So when you are out this summer, enjoying the weather or surrounded by family, think of how the people and natural elements around you are contributing to making your life more dignified and valued.
