WASHINGTON, D.C. – JUNE 11TH, 2024 – The Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, a dynamic and dedicated Refuge Friends organization, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Molly Krival Award – Refuge Friends Group of the Year. This honor recognizes their outstanding contributions to community engagement and conservation at Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, which spans Illinois and Wisconsin.
The Molly Krival Award celebrates Refuge Friends groups who have shown exemplary dedication to the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Named in honor of Molly Krival, a pioneer in the Refuge Friends Group movement, the 2024 Wildlife Refuge Awards ceremony and celebration will be held on Wednesday, September 18th, 2024 at 5:30 pm in Washington, D.C. at the esteemed Mayflower Hotel. Media coverage of this event is highly encouraged.
“The Friends of Hackmatack have truly embodied the spirit of community conservation, transforming vision into reality through tireless volunteer efforts and strong local partnerships,” said Geoffrey L. Haskett, President of the National Wildlife Refuge Association. “Their grassroots efforts and persistent advocacy led to the establishment of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, and their continued work in fostering community relationships, advocating for natural resources, and supporting refuge initiatives has been nothing short of inspiring.”
The Friends of Hackmatack were instrumental in the establishment of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. Their grassroots efforts and persistent advocacy led to the creation of this vital national wildlife refuge, which now serves as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a place for community members to connect with nature.
Notable accomplishments of the Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge include:
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Community Engagement & Events: Hosting popular events such as World Migratory Bird Day, Monarch Mania, and Latino Conservation Week, drawing significant community participation and raising awareness about wildlife conservation.
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Grant Securing & Fundraising: Successfully obtaining significant grants, including $975,000 for wetland restoration and $48,000 for land restoration projects. Their effective fundraising efforts have greatly supported habitat restoration and community outreach initiatives.
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Partnerships & Advocacy: Collaborating with local businesses, conservation organizations, and other Friends groups to enhance public awareness and involvement in conservation projects. Their advocacy efforts have been crucial in expanding and protecting the refuge.
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Educational & Outreach Programs: Engaging the local community through educational programs and volunteer opportunities, fostering a strong connection between the public and the natural environment.
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Habitat Restoration Projects: Leading efforts in habitat management and restoration, significantly benefiting local wildlife and enhancing the ecological health of the refuge.
The Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge have set a high standard for volunteer groups across the nation, demonstrating how grassroots initiatives can lead to substantial conservation achievements.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of the Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge at the 2024 Wildlife Refuge Awards. Visit refugeassociation.org/awards to learn more.
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The National Wildlife Refuge Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting, promoting, and enhancing the 850-million-acre National Wildlife Refuge System, the world’s largest network of lands and waters set aside for wildlife conservation.
For all media inquiries and questions, please contact Eden Taylor, Communications Manager at [email protected].
