Photo by Mary Weathers
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live and work, and DHC has adapted our programs to include physical distancing and virtual events. We hosted few nature walks and hikes in 2020. We held limited volunteer opportunities. Critically, we had to cancel our largest fundraiser, the Celebration Dinner.
Despite these changes, we have continued to make great progress toward our mission to connect and protect the Dishman Hills. We have had virtual presentations and created Nature at Home, an online education resource in place of the in-person Kids in the Hills program.
We have many community partners that have helped make our success possible through these challenging times. Welcoming in the new year and reflecting on 2020, we would like to take time to give thanks.
We are thankful for Spokane County Parks, which funded and built the Phillips Creek Trailhead. Thank you to the Spokane Mountaineers, Washington Trails Association, and Evergreen East Mountain Bike Alliance for partnering with us to build the Flying L Trail in the Glenrose Unit. The new trail provides access to a large area of the Hills from Spokane Valley.
We are also thankful for our partners at the Lands Council, Morning Star Foundation, and Rambleraven Gear Trader. We are thankful to have Spokane Audubon Society as our partner on developing a new trailhead at the Wilson Conservation Area. And most importantly, we are thankful for you, our members and supporters. You have continued to show us generous support that has allowed us to continue through this uncertain time.
As Washington State’s oldest land trust, we have gotten used to thinking long-term. The COVID-19 pandemic is only temporary, but together we can ensure that the Dishman Hills remain protected in perpetuity as a resource for our entire community. If you would like to make a donation to our land acquisition program, education program, or to trail development at the Wilson Conservation Area, visit DishmanHills.org/Donate-Now.
