Friends of Saguaro National Park Inc

FOSNP's NextGen program has done an outstanding job in encouraging young people to develop interest in preservation and conservation and assisting them to build a career path to serve the National Park Service.

Friend of Saguaro National Park is an absolutely amazing fundraising partner of the National Park Service, created to help preserve, protect and enhance the fragile environment and unique cultural heritage of the Sonoran Desert at Saguaro National Park. They help to protect wildlife and habitat, promote environmental education, improve recreational trails, enhance visitor experiences, build environmental stewardship for the Park, and more!

Well run, excellent program management, and spends donations wisely.

Friends of Saguaro National Park (FOSNP) is an amazing nonproft that delivers significant, tangible benefits to Saguaro National Park (SAGU) 24/7/365! .... From the groundbreaking NextGen Ranger Program, to directly protecting and managing natural and cultural resources, to adopting a roadway adjacent to SAGU for clean-up, FOSNP is the principal friends/support group for SAGU. The organization has an incredibly strong brand and a healthy balance sheet as well. I have served on the Board of Directors of FOSNP for over 8 years , and it's been an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience!

Friends of Saguaro does an incredible job to help promote Saguaro National Park and its programs. Their mission to Discover, Protect, and Support SNP has made lasting and tangible differences. They've helped fund trail maintenance, ecological studies, the Next Gen Ranger program and so much more. Truly an excellent nonprofit!

Friends of Saguaro National Park continues to be an amazing partner for the NPS. They add capacity to take on and complete important projects and have increased relevancy within nearby communities through the hiring of diverse youth and addressing important topics.

I greatly value the assistance that the Friends of Saguaro National Park (FOSNP) offer through donations (thanks donors!) for the Next Generation Ranger youth program and other initiatives that enhance visitor experiences, promote sustainability, improve accessibility, and help protect natural and cultural resources. These programs are essential for the park's success and its role in fulfilling the NPS mission. Among all these initiatives, the Next Generation Ranger program stands out as a key effort to help the NPS address its challenge of remaining relevant. The mission to preserve and protect our natural resources for future generations relies heavily on supporting youth programs and providing education in resource stewardship. Without the commitment of future generations to stewardship, the preservation of our National Parks is at risk. This is where the Friends of Saguaro National Park are making a significant impact, alongside other youth programs, ensuring that "the best idea we ever had" regarding protected lands continues to fulfill the mission of protection and enjoyment for all forever.

Friends of Saguaro National Park is an innovative, high-impact, efficient, and mission-driven nonprofit that I am very proud to have supported for many years. Their commitment to transparency, accountability, and being trustworthy stewards of your gifts is unmatched. Saguaro National Park would not be the place we know and love today without the work of this amazing organization!

I'm incredibly proud to be affiliated with the Friends of Saguaro and am thankful for the support received from donors & supporters. The work the organization is doing to identify & secure grant funding from a variety of sources & entities is impressive. SNP is "Tucson's National Park" and the community has embraced our mission to Discover, Protect & Support this treasure!

Wow! What an amazing organization for the park and Tucson community. I was very impressed with the young professionals in both resource management and environmental education. These interns were so passionate about their stories and creating change in the environmental science community. I got the opportunity to work alongside them during citizen science projects that showcased their excellent leadership and passion, and it opened my eyes to the opportunities that Friends of Saguaro provide for these amazing interns. It also impressed me how many employees of Saguaro National Park came up through the Next Generation Ranger program. I hope more national parks establish organizations like this one in the future!

I have been involved with Friends of Saguaro National Park for around a year now, and I am impressed by how hard they work to ensure that there is equitable and meaningful access for all to Saguaro National Park. Part of this is done by leading the Next Generation Ranger Corps, which provides paid positions in the National Park for local young professionals from diverse backgrounds. Friends also strongly supports the environmental education program at the park, which reaches many local kids each year to bring them to an amazing outdoor space.

As a long time park visitor and volunteer I have seen first hand the amazing support provided by the FOSNP. The FOSNP helps support a wide variety of programs and projects around the park that benefit Visitors, Park operations, scientific research, and much more. In addition, the Next Gen Ranger Program is an amazing opportunity that helps younger generations become future stewards of our parks. This year I am deeply honored to have been asked to join the Board of Directors of this incredible organization.

Serving as a board member has enabled me to see how FOSNP interacts directly with staff from Saguaro National Park, our Tucson community, and sister organizations with respect and sensitivity to their needs and desires. FOSNP has consistently kept its costs well under control while focussing on supporting the mission of SNP. Also, over time, our friends group has developed innovative solutions to help bring diversity into the park service as well as in its community of supporters.

Over the last two years, despite the problems caused by the pandemic, Friends of Saguaro National Park, Inc. has continued to increase support for Park projects. Success of this nonprofit is due, in part, to the efficient structure of the organization, excellent leadership, dedication and efforts of Board Members, and finally (and perhaps most importantly) to how much the Park is loved within the Tucson community.

Fantastic organization. This board stands out as it actually gets stuff done and supports the park. The NextGen Program is delivering results that helps young people and the park. Very proud to be associated.

I am proud to be a board member of this active, effective organization. We raise money to support the work of Saguaro National Park, for such things as environmental education, trail maintenance, invasive species removal, research, and visitor interpretation. Over the years we have raised money for "Next Gen Rangers" -- a special program that recruits young people from underserved communities to work in the park. This is a great group!

Friends is an amazing organization that I have supported for many years. Their invaluable work supports programs and services at Saguaro National Park and for me, the most impactful aspect of this work is their commitment to connecting the local community and protecting the integrity of a place I love.

I am a longtime Board member, and I remain impressed by the important role Friends of Saguaro National Park plays in funding projects that the Park itself cannot fund, and in promoting this important urban park to populations who would not otherwise visit a national park. And the Friends do so with very little administrative overhead. When you give to this nonprofit, you know that your financial resources are going to fund something important, both for today and tomorrow's generations.

This organization is creating fantastic opportunities for community members to get informed and involved with the region while offering amazing job positions for Tucsonans who are invested in helping steward Saguaro National Park and the local ecosystem.

Wonderful organization that certainly meets, if not exceeds, its mission and goals. Their communications are clear, timely and interesting. Their efforts and fund raising results are evident at Saguaro Natl Park.

In past years I have commented that Friends of Saguaro is extremely cost-efficient, has an exemplary relationship with Park staff and is focused on clear goals. All those positive factors have continued.
In the past year, the Friends have diversified and broadened their fundraising, engaging new community groups that have an interest in specific projects at the park. At the same time, the Friends have expanded the NextGen program to provide work experience in the park to young people and under-represented groups who have traditionally had difficulty breaking through the hiring process. Many of these participants have gone on to become full-time members of the park service across the west.
It is nice to be able to say that serving as a board member of the Friends of Saguaro National Park has been an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Where should I start? The park has it ALL! Since 1990 I have trained for marathons in Saguaro East, hiked every trail with friends and my children, photographed jackrabbits, gila monsters and night blooming cactus. I have narrowly avoided biking into tortoises and even a mountain lion. I hike and bicycle in the park at least three times a week, year round. I love the continual updating of the education areas, water dispensers, picnic areas, sail shade cloths and public art. Do other parks display the whimsy that our park does? I'm referring to the SLOW signs with a tortoise painted on the paved roadway and the caution road sign with a bicycle tumbling down a cliff. When we had a government shutdown the volunteers kept the bathrooms stocked with hand sanitizer and toilet paper...even the remote trailside bathrooms. We guests feel loved! Last year I finally learned about the extensive youth programs. Hurrah! Now the next generation will become stewards of this beautiful gem and begin their life long romance with nature. Thank you Friends of Saguaro National Park for your visionary, caring support!

The Friends of Saguaro has been a national leader in breaking down barriers for young people from diverse backgrounds to start careers in the National Park Service through its Next Generation Ranger program. The Friends dedication to this program has been truly remarkable, and it's grown each year since its inception, with many program participants moving into Park Service or similar jobs. We've hired a few Next Gen Rangers at my workplace, and they come with excellent training!

This org has supported students at the small charter school I work with amazingly over the years. They have funded internships, provided materials for Buffel grass pulls, trail maintenance, exhibits in the visitor centers and so much more. Many of the students who grew up here in Tucson, had never been to one of Saguaro National Parks before. Now, Each student spend at least a few days a year in the park and feels connected! I believe this work will amplify over the years as the students bring their own friends and family into the Park as well .

Friends of Saguaro has been and continues to be a huge benefit to Environmental Education programs offered at Saguaro National Park. Their support has improved access for students and their families to participate in educational activities, furthering the mission of Saguaro and the National Park Service.

Thank you FOSNP for your strident advocacy against proposed Interstate 11, which would wreck wildlife corridors and habitat. I appreciate how this group looks beyond the borders of Saguaro National Park to work toward meaningful conservation for the larger region. Bravo!

I love the wildlife cams. Never knew we had badgers in the park until we caught them on film. Pretty cool.

I have been a loyal donor to Friends for many years because they are a trustworthy, innovative and high-impact nonprofit. I know that my contributions are appreciated and make a significant difference to help support a place I love to visit, Saguaro National Park.

FOSNP is a fantastic organization that helps protect and support Saguaro National Park. The Friends group also spends tremendous effort and resources to help connect the Arizona community to this desert treasure.

Friends of Saguaro National Park provides financial support that enables Saguaro national park to reach many youth in the Tucson area. One special program takes place at the University of Arizona Medical Center's Diamond Children's Center. Park Rangers and volunteers invite the young patients and their families to participate in a Junior Ranger program at the hospital. Children learn about what makes up a national park, stories about the Sonoran Desert and are sworn in as Junior Rangers. Thanks to the Friends of Saguaro, the children take a small stuffed animal, coloring book and crayons back to their rooms. We have experienced many touching moments during this program and we want to thank our Friends for their support.

Without the FSNP my school would not be able to get our students out to the Park because our hiking club would not be possible. FSNP enables me to run a hiking club that sends about 20 students in grades 4-6 every year to learn how to be citizen scientists and park stewards using their backyard resource (SNP). Through this program, the students have been able to go through the complete program all three years and have more recently bridged into another aspect of their "training". I can't thank the Fiends enough for their generous support year after year.

The Friends of Saguaro National Park provides funding for the Teacher Ranger program. I have had the privilege of being a Teacher Ranger for several years and have led a hiking club consisting of 4th and 5th graders who most likely would never have had the opportunity to experience and explore the beautiful desert areas surrounding Tucson. The benefits of this program are everlasting!

Not only is the Saguaro National Park a haven for the animals and plants of the desert, but it exceeds in Southwestern beauty. The Friends of Saguaro National Park Inc. aid in the preservation of the park and the education of the young to old. The visitations to children in the hospital brings this experience to those that are not physically able.

Saguaro National Park is a true Tucson and national treasure. My husband and I have spent many hours running and biking the trails and enjoying the pristine beauty of the park. I was also fortunate enough to be a volunteer artist for the Rincon Visitor Center donor wall and, through that experience, learned to appreciate the park's diverse fauna and flora even more. The annual Fundraiser at Tanque Verde Ranch is a fun and tasty affair, featuring artwork, vacations, and many other products and services that can be purchased at attractive prices, with the proceeds supporting such a worthwhile cause. The work that the Park does to ensure that this habitat remains preserved for future generations is invaluable.

Saquaro is a treasure for all who visit, I think of her when I am far away. Theprogramming for youth, community and volunteers is outstanding! Serving ten thousand plus students is a huge yearly accomplishment. Thank you for lending your support today, for our future. Emily Sullivan

My husband and I have been hiking, biking, and running in this park for the past 40 years. We feel very fortunate to have such an amazing place in our backyard. We attend FOSNP's annual fundraiser, because of the critical support that they provide to Saguaro National Park. FOSNP is the community's link to a partnership with this special place that we all want to preserve.

I've had the privilege to be part of this board for the last several years. I'm happy to be part of an organization that is so well organized and well run. The best part is that it benefits some very key national parks right here in Tucson.

You know an organization is good when people over 2,600 miles away from the park it helps to support have donated for nearly a decade. We first visited Saguaro on a cross-country motorcycle trip in 2008, and we have been back many times. This is a very well-run park, with a wonderful staff and FOSP to support their work. They are admirable stewards of the land and the wildlife that depend on it. We will support them for the rest of our lives.

FOSNP has done so much to improve the experience for visitors to Saguaro National Park. We always check out what is new when we vosit the Tucson area.

FOSNP are a wonderful group of folks working hard to preserve such a special park. I have donated several times over the past decade, and Bob has always been incredibly helpful to me and my family members who have donated. I'm a big fan of the park, the volunteers and FOSNP

I am a new donor, having learned of this organization in an issue of Sunset Magazine. I appreciate what they are doing. I was born and raised in southern California, and made many trips with my family to Saguaro National Park as we traveled throughout the southwest. I'm happy to support their efforts and mission.

The Friends of Saguaro National Park are a group of committed, enthusiastic volunteers with a great sense of community and appreciation for the beauty of our natural surroundings. The park is a special place for outdoor activity for locals and allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of the Sonoran desert. One of the classic bicycle rides in Tucson!

I wish I was more articulate to describe how great FOSNP is! They always organize and work hard with the public as well as the staff @ the park. I greatly appreciate the work they accomplish as well as keeping people up to date. Certainly a group that deserves top kudos!

Friends of Saguaro is my favorite environmental group. Their role in preserving and enhancing the visitor experience is what has kept me as a long time donor even though I live in Wisconsin and rarely are able to travel to Tucson.

The friends group keeps me posted through beautiful newsletters, timely information on Congressional action on the NPS budget. It very transparently tells donors how their gifts are used. Administrative and fundraising costs are kept low so donors are assured their gifts go to the park.

I am especially impressed by the programs the Friends support to serve younger visitors to the park. This is critical if the next generations are to enjoy and preserve the park.

FOSNP have consistently been responsible and dedicated to the park. If not for them, I'm not sure the park would do well at all. They protect the park as a treasured resource and provide a valuable service to the American public.

Friends of Saguaro National Park raises money to support park interpretation, research, and education. I especially like the programs they support, from the Next Generation Rangers to school visits, that brings young people into the park. Take it from an insider - this groups does a great job!

I hike in Saguaro National Park every month and the quality of the trails, the programs offered and the education provided is great! I commend Friends of Saguaro National Park for their efforts and hope that people recognize the level of effort it takes to offer all they do to the community.

Although I live in Virginia, I started contributing to Friends of Saguaro National Park in 2014 the first time I visited the beautiful, peaceful park. The Friends use the donations to do so many wonderful things - from protecting the "monarchs of the desert" to protecting the animals that live in the park to educating the public about the Sonoran Desert to fostering the social conscience and self confidence of children through junior ranger programs. The Friends also promote an interest and appreciation of our National Parks and nature in general. They do not use donations to cover administrative expenses or to throw parties or take trips for themselves - they are always thinking about the Park and the preservation of the outdoors. If I lived near the park I would definitely join the thoughtful people who help out at the park. In the meantime, I send them monetary contributions and encourage others to visit Saguaro National Park.

Friends of Saguaro does a great job providing an enriching experience for families. The work they do with the visitors' center and with hands-on activities in the park is really valuable for creating fun learning opportunities for kids.

Friends of Saguaro National Park does a great job connecting the park to the community and people who enjoy it. Their newsletters are timely and informative and their fundraising events are very enjoyable. As an equestrian who rides in SNPE almost every week, I appreciate having an organization like FOSNP to keep me connected.

As a seasonal volunteer interpretive naturalist at the Rincon District of Saguaro National Park I know first hand how important the Friends of Saguaro National Park is to protecting and preserving the Park. They provide funds for projects that would never otherwise be funded and they provide vocal support when outside forces threaten the Park.

The interaction between Saguaro National Part officials and the Friends of the Saguaro National park in developing an extraordinary program connection Park Rangers with teachers in nearby school districts is an important step to insuring continued protection this unique park by providing educational experiences to the youth in the communities near the park.
This is only one of the important contributions "The Friends of Saguaro ...." makes.
Bobbie V.

Friends of Saguaro is a group of highly dedicated people who care about their National Park and work hard to keep it a prized Tucson destination.

Friends of Saguaro National Park has done an outstanding job of working with the park to identify and fund important studies and programs that would otherwise not be possible.

Friends of Saguaro is a very effective organization that supports many valuable programs at Saguaro National Park, including environmental education, scientific research, and the recent visitor center upgrades. The Executive Director, Bob, and the board are very responsive to the needs of the park, and also serve an important role in connecting the park to the Tucson community. Thanks, FOSNP!

Friends of Saguaro is a star within the National Park Service Friends groups. They may be small, but they pack a huge punch! The Executive Director has years of experience in non-profit management and fundraising, and the board members are very active. Their passion for the Sonoran desert ecosystem really shines through. Without the help of FOSNP, Saguaro National Park would not be able to carry out numerous park programs every year.

Sagauaros need protecting. They are an iconic symbol of America and the "wild west" instantly recognized and beloved around the world.

Saguaro National Park is an amazing place.. It is a prime example of what southern AZ. is all about. From the variety of cactus to the multitude of wild life, guests are always impressed.

I recently took my seven-year-old granddaughter to Tucson for the first time. I couldn't wait to take her out to Saguaro National Park. We had the best time! The education center is excellent. She requested that we go back the next day, which we did! She earned her Junior Ranger badge. The staff made her feel so special. She is already planning our next trip to Arizona. I told her I wanted to take her to the Grand Canyon. She said no she wants to stay around Tucson so we can go hike at Saguaro National Park!

Keep up the great work. As a winter visitor to Tucson we love spending time in the park, lots of activities and trails are well maintained.

It is excellent place to hiking and preserve. Unfortunately I can not help because I live so far away.

Wonderful organization. So happy they are a wonderful part of the park

Great. Great.

Friend's of Saguaro National Park is a wonderful organization that genuinely supports and cares for Tucson's backyard Saguaro National Park. All the board members are extremely involved in the park' s events, well being and success. I have personally witnessed this Friend's group join together in order to provide Saguaro NP with the support needed for youth intiatives, local community events, resource management projects and staff needs. It is an awesome organization and Saguaro National Park is lucky to have them as friends!

The Friends of Saguaro National Park is a great asset to the local Tucson community. It has a strong commitment to the protection and sustainability of one of southern Arizona's numerous natural assets. With proven leadership and a strong commitment to its mission, the Friends of Saguaro National Park ranks high among local non-profits. It's future success is imperative for the protection of our beautiful desert landscape.
Jonathan McMahan
Fire Chief
Rural Metro Fire Department Pima County

Any time that we have out of town visitors, we make certain to take them to Saguaro National Park. It is a prime example of what southern AZ. is all about. From the variety of cactus to the multitude of wild life, guests are always impressed.

Friends of Saguaro does a fantastic job with facilitating access to all the Park has to offer. They make it easy to do everything from a group educational field trip, to an individual brief hike on a weekend. In all my visits to the Park with friends and family of different ages, there has been something for everyone. I will keep coming back!

My wife and I love the annual Dinner and Auction at Tanque Verde Ranch! Thank you Bob Newtson and FOSNP for all that you do!

As a business owner, our family is asked to help out a wide variety of charitable efforts. Friends of Saguaro National Park is top on our list of who we help as we know how everything goes to the mission of supporting Tucson's national park. Though, obviously as a national park this is one of our country's most valued places, it does not receive the attention other more famous locations do. This reality makes the Friends efforts even more important, and they are doing it the right way. Everyone who appreciates the very important role our national park has in what is special about Tucson and Pima county should support this group.

Friends of Saguaro National Park does a remarkable job of supporting this park in the preservation of these resources for future generations to enjoy. Please take the time to help this organization in its most noble mission.

FOSNP is a hard working and committed group that is essential to the protection and preservation of SNP, east and west. Through community outreach and education they maintain the energy level and awareness that is crucial to sustaining a non-profit in today's economy. As a neighboring property, we appreciate our relationship with them as like minded stewards of the land.

The Friends of Saguaro National Park are truly friends of the park and anyone who wants to see natural beauty at its finest. They provide funds for programs, research, facilities, projects, education, activities, and remain fiscally responsible in all they do. Their staff is friendly, professional, and very productive. They know the importance of conserving this national treasure, and we are all grateful.

Friends of Saguaro NP is involved in almost every aspect of the operation and upkeep of this twin park (both east and west of Tucson) in the lush upper Sonoran Desert. FOSNP is involved in trail maintenance, bufflegrass removal, monetary and administrative support to the park and research involving the myriad plants and animals found in the park. I am proud to be a donor to FOSNP and a frequent visitor to SNP, both east and west.

I consider FOSNP one of the best non-profits I am involved with. The communications to donors from the Executive Director are timely and informative. I feel support for the National Parks is especially critical at a time when government funding is unreliable. The Friends group not only is helping preserve this national asset but it enhances the experience for all park visitors.

There are few greater blessings that we have as a nation than our national parks. The beauty seen, diversity offered, and opportunities for experience they provide for each visitor is limited only by the visitor himself. As our public lands dwindle, our parks remain a shining beacon. As public funds to protect, maintain, and promote our parks dwindle, groups like FOSNP stand in the gap. Their task is large and expectations are high, but FOSNP doesn't disappoint. Their programs are varied and expansive and the quality of service is excellent. They are dedicated to their mission and perform professionally with limited funds. I am grateful for their service and perseverance. Thanks guys!

I have worked with many Friends groups in my long career in state and national parks, but I've never worked with a group like the Friends of Saguaro National Park. They are incredibly dedicated and effective. They not only raise funds, but they do so in a way that is strategic and innovative. They are instrumental in creating a connection between this park and the community. The Friends create a spirit of partnership and place that would not exist if the Friends did not exist. I wish every state and national park in America had friends like the Friends of Saguaro National Park!

FOSNP helps the park manage its resources which are set aside to preserve and protect for the enjoyment of future generations. FOSNP puts the donated dollars to tangible and realized projects that as a donor can see the effectiveness of FOSNP dollars, as a volunteer can appreciate the support FOSNP gives to programs, and as a visitor can see the improvements/enhancements FOSNP dollars mean to maintaining park facilities.

Great organization that truly helps to connect kids with natural spaces by supporting the Park's mission of preservation and conservation. My own children have benfitted tremendously from the work that Friends does.

Saguaro National Park needs the support that excellent organizations like Friends of Sagauro National Park provide. With decreases in Government funding while visitation and park uses increase, it takes groups like Friends of Sagauro National Park to help maintain programs and research in the park that would normally go unfunded. They carefully review and select to fund each project they know will greatly benefit the park and the public that visits and uses the park resources.

By supporting FRIENDS, we are able to invest in one of Tucson's (and America's) gems, Saguaro National Park. We are so fortunate to have two biotic communities in the Tucson Mountain district and six biotic communities in the Rincon district, both hosting a variety of plants and animals. We make donations yearly and have done so since we moved to Tucson six years ago.

I truly believe in this park and the services it provides. I live in Houston, Texas and need time away from the hussle and bustle of life and I have discovered that both of these parks give me the reprieve I need from life and it is so...quiet peaceful and wonderful...Therefore, I support it...I realize that it takes dedicated individuals to maintain it, therefore I do. I just want to inform you to keep this nonprofit way up there in the ratings...as a five star non profit. Sincerely....Laura L. Mast

SImply put, Saguaro National Park relies heavily on the FRIENDS for support, and the park could not do its work to protect our resources and serve our visitors without their help. The FRIENDS have provided funding and support for many different projects and purposes, including critical plant and animal research, environmental education, support of our volunteers, and visitor improvements such as new Visitor Center exhibits. The Board and its members are passionately dedicated to protecting the park and its resources, and promoting the physical, social, and mental importance of national parks to our locals and visitors alike.

THANK YOU, FRIENDS!

When my husband and I moved to Tucson 7 years ago, we began making donations to Friends of Saguaro National Park - as it supports Tucson's "backyard", which is so important to our community. In the past four years we have made FOSNP our main charitable donation as we have worked with and learned more about how well they handle the money provided to them, and serve such a vital role in maintaining wonderful Saguaro National Park.

I have worked closely with the Friends of Saguaro National Park as a consultant and partner. The organization is well-run with a top notch executive director and strong board. The Friends are very much aligned with the park in terms of priorities and provide funding for strategic initiatives in education, research and the visitor experience. The National Park Foundation is proud to have worked closely with the Friends on several projects, including new exhibits at the visitor center.

I'm a resident of Tucson and volunteer with Weed Free Trails (WFT) at Saguaro National Park. My wife (who also volunteers with WFT) and I joined Friends of Saguaro National Park after attending their annual volunteer appreciation picnic, supported by Friends of Saguaro NP. The Saguaro NP staff deeply appreciate the support that Friends of Saguaro NP provides and I appreciate all the work that they do for the park.

We have donated to the Friends for years due to the great work that they have done supporting this Park.

I always appreciate what Friends of Saguaro National Park do whenever I visit the Saguaro National Park. Their caring and stewardship shows and without it the park would not be the asset it is. As we all have seen nationwide the increased use of National Parks and the decrease in funding by Congress necessitates that organizations step in to maintain these parks. Friends of Saguaro National Park are this guardian to this beautiful park.

Our federal agencies charged with protecting our public lands are hard pressed to do their jobs effectively these days. Friends of Saguaro National Park has been critical in helping the Park succeed in their mission.

Twenty years ago my husband and I did not even know that a Suaguaro NM existed. We were looking for a new place to visit and picked Tucson off the map strictly by accident. During our week of camping we were enthralled with the magnificent tall plant that dominated the skyline. We had fun giving personalities to the strange contortions which endures this plant. You have to go to AZ to see these magnificent old giants as they are unique to the state. A few years later we bought a house across the street from the park boundry and soon after it was designated a National Park. We became members of Fsnp about the same time and have been proud to be supporters with our donations. They keep us abreast of their work in maintaining the environment so people can enjoy the trails, wildlife, and desert plants. They also inform us when special projects are being planned. We have adopted saguaros and supported projects over the years. We are older now and cannot walk the trails anymore but we will always look out from our driveways and be thankful that there is a nonprofit taking care of this spectacular scenery and we can still drive through the park and show it to our friends.

I'm a lifetime resident of the Sonoran desert and protecting that eco rich environment is important for current and future generations. The Friends of Saguaro organization is focused on protecting that eco-system. I thanks them for their dedication and efforts.

As residents of the Pacific Northwest the beauty of the Southwest intrigues us and draws us for yearly visits. Several years ago we picked up a brochure to "Adopt a Cactus" and have enjoyed giving this many times as a gift to friends and family. It is such a novel and creative fundraising idea! Recently I "adopted" desert animals for my grandsons and they are already talking about next year's choice! Our most memorable visit to the park was the year we were able to see the cactus in bloom, and marvel at the diversity of life they support. Thank you for your dedication to such a magical and extrordinary treasure.

I live out of state in Colorado but try to visit Tuscon every yr.I love the area,the huge Saguaro make me happy-yes the indians are right-its a spiritual place--Fosnp does a great job in maintaining anc caring about theNP-they do alot to maintain the trails,monitor animals progress etc.Without Fosnp I dont know how the NP would be supported and maintained,great outfit,very dedicated.They always have my support

I have been a volunteer at Saguaro National Park for many years. The park is so important to the community because we know the value and exceptional opportunity that we have to be able to experience the wilderness and solitude of the park in less than an hour from any part of the urban area. It is such an unique park and visitors from all over the world can share in this wonder. The Friends of Saguaro National have made wonderful contributions to the preservation and protection of the wildlife and the natural and cultural resources of the park.

I live out of state but I am happy to donate to support these terrific staff and volunteers who keep the wonderful resource going. I adore visiting when I get to Tucson and appreciate their stewardship of the flora and fauna and their educational efforts.

I am a member of the Friends and gratefully respect the work of this organization. Although I am unable to donate time, I find it an honor to provide financial support. The park trails, displays, and facilities are absolutely top level. it has been a joy to take out-of-town guests through the park so might enjoy and appreciate what this entire area used to look like.

I've been a long-time donor for Friends of Saguaro, and I regularly volunteer at the park as well. I think this is a wonderful organization, that does a great deal to help the park. Especially in this time of tight federal budgets, I'm sure that the park would be unable to offer many of their programs if it wasn't for the help they receive from Friends of Saguaro. I've read about the Gila monster research that FOSNP has funded, and I've seen the terrific wildlife photos that have been taken with the remote, motion-triggered trail cameras that FOSNP purchased for the park. I'm happy to support this organization that supports Saguaro National Park!

I also am a member of the Friends and deeply respect the work they do. It is an absolutely gorgeous place and the trails and displays that they help maintain make it a star in the Tucson Area. I encourage my guests to visit with me, and I get there as often as a busy schedule allows. Great place; great outfit.

As a volunteer at Saguaro East, I am proud to also be a member of Friends of SNP. The organization is supportive of all initiatives that the Park staff suggests, and the funding for environmental education programs for Tucson's school children is a meaningful use of donations.

As an environmental education professional working at Saguaro National Park I want to commend the Friends of saguaro on their efforts to provide transportation to under-served school groups to attend field trips at the park. For many of these students this will be there first experience of a national park, a vital part of America's heritage (after all we only have 59 of them in the whole country.) For others it is their first visit to a desert environment, despite the fact that they live in a city surrounded by desert. The value of these experiences may not be apparent immediately, but we know from personal experience that some of those students will be the protectors of these special places in the future. For every "thank you" note from a fourth grader that I get, I send a double "thanks" to the Friends of saguaro National Park.

I am an out of state donor who strongly supports the Friends of Saguaro because of their outstanding support for educational and environmental programs at the Park. The Friends group offers outstanding communications with donors and I enjoy my conversations with the Friends group staff. He is particularly adept at obtaining additional support from Foundations and Corporations matching our individual donor gifts. The Friends communicate with donors regularly with an excellent newsletter and also we receive thoughtful reports on issues related to the park that of a more urgent nature.
Private donors are so critical to the Park because of the uncertainty surrounding funding from the Federal government. Without the support of the Friends group, important visitor services would have to be severely curtailed.
Of the organizations I interact with as a donor I have found the Friends staff the best by far.

We live across the street from Saguaro Park West so the Park has an extra importance to us. Friends of Saguaro does an excellent job at helping the Park maintain it's beauty and it's significance to our community by it's volunteering efforts and donations, especially during this time of government cut-backs. Much appreciated!

My late wife and I have enjoyed many winters hiking the trails of Saguaro National Park, Rincon Mountain District. Visitors are really made welcome and treated to a great variety of programs. We have been supporting FOSNP for many years and this year I made a significent contribution to adopt a trail in my wife's memory. That money will be used to help maintain all those lovely trails in future years. I hope taht I am able to make a similar contribution next year. I believe in FOSNP. The work that FOSNP does is amazing. They do so much with so little, and have assisted both districts of Saguaro National Park, keeping them fully "open for business" in spite of all the recent budget cuts they have had to endure. They are true protectors of one of the most beautiful national parks we have.
Paul S.

Friends of Saguaro National Park is awesome! They do so much to support Saguaro NP, and my husband and I spend every day of our vacation time here, driving the loops, hiking the trails and talking with the rangers and vounteers. We love the park and we love what FOSNP does to help out. That is especially true now, with budgets being cut - FOSNP is more needed than ever!

I have been a FOSNP advisory board member for the past 1.5 years, but life-long resident of Tucson. Saguaro National Park is one of our nation's crown jewels, and has been a source of great enjoyment to me and my family for as long as I can remember. Many year's worth of Thanksgiving picnics, birthday parties, countless hikes and bikerides at the park, and daily opportunities to gaze at the mountains --- all these activities enrich my life. The park has several non-profit partners, all playing different roles, and all so vital to help the park sustain its operation and enhance the public's enjoyment and understanding of the park. FOSNP is a stellar fund and friend-raising organization. They raise vital funds effectively and efficiently. The management is first class and they enjoy a solid relationship with the park and the supporters of the park. Hats off to FOSP

We are in Saguaro National Park East almost daily since retirement a few years back. I have always been impressed by the way the Park is maintained and improved in spite of funding challenges. We contribute to FOSNP because they continuously demonstrate their invaluable support of the Park.

we love Saguaro National Park East, such a treat to be in nature, well maintained, and with kind staff. Many trails, and places to pull and take photos with visitors, we always take there. We count on the Friends newspaper to know what's happening, it's emails of timely events, and good natured manners when we ask a question. Great group, that we are proud to donate $$$ to.

I worked closely with Friends of Saguaro in the past, and they have always demonstrated a genuine passion for the park and community. Their work with Teacher-Ranger-Teacher and research with the University of Arizona and Saguaro National Park is a testimony to their passion to bring the needs of the park to the awareness of the community. In addition, their volunteer work to fight back buffelgrass was exceptional. Although FOSNP is a smaller organization than that of some of the larger parks - they gathered up to 25-40 volunteers to pull buffelgrass into the early afternoon.

Bob Newtson is a generous person with an exceptional ability to build partnerships with board members and businesses in the community.

FOSNP is an amazing partner with Saguaro National Park. We easily and regularly collaborate on large and small projects. We could not do the work we do with out their help.

FOSNP and Bob Newtson truly live up to their group's name, "Friends of Saguaro National Park". They recently donated a wonderful little mule to the park to help us continue the longstanding tradition of backcountry packing operations to support both staff and volunteer activities occurring in the Wilderness. Thank you!

This group works almost entirely behind the scenes to support a very large group of volunteers with little recognition of their work. Their efforts are much appreciated by gthe voluteer group that they support.

We had a great time at this years annual fundraising auction, Bob Newtson does a great job! Thank you FOSNP for everything you do!

I have worked with the Friends since they started in 1997. They are well-run and efficient, and they make a huge difference by providing support to make Saguaro National Park, outside Tucson, Arizona, one of the best parks in the nation. One of their current projects, studying Gila monster lizards, will contribute greatly to conservation of this sensitive and little-known reptile.

Friends of saguaro do a wonderful job in many areas, and specifically in plant and wildlife monitoring. They recently counted and measured all saguaros in a 200 sq meter area in the park for which there are historical records of a similar survey in the 1940's. This will help evaluate the saguaro's health now compared to almost 70 years ago. this is just one example of the work they do to support Saguaro National Park.

Saguaro National Park brackets the east and west sides of Tucson and offers many miles of trails, lots of camp sites, interpretive sites and visitor centers to make our desert environment accessible and to teach appreciation, understanding and respect for our surroundings. It's a very important amenity to our city and Southern Arizona in general.

I spent several hours counting and measuring saguaro cactus. The outing was part of a much larger and long term project having significant and varied implications for the park and southwest land management. The rangers and interns were very informed and instructive. The count was very organized and used my time and effort effectively and respectively. The staff imparted a since of importance to our work while creating a sense of fun and shared accomplishment.

Friends of Saguaro is a wonderful example of volunteer concerned citizens banding together for to preseve the environment of our Southern Arizona community. I conribute financially a little and admire the time, spirit and passion of those who give time and effort to preserve our Sonoran desert

The Friends' work in supporting education is especially importnat for Saguaro National Park because it is located so close to the city of Tucson (and is actually surrounded by the metyropolitan area). This means that the Firends' work exposes many kids to nature and the park who wold normally not have such an opportunity. A great example is the 2011 BioBlitz, in which the Friends' involvement made transportation and overnight experiences available to many local elementary and high school students.

This organization was indeed a "grass roots" organization., The volunteers who wanted to help the park put up their own mney in 1997 to get the non-profit started and the first year raised $12,000. Since then it has grown to a 6 figure budget with an exceptionally able Excutive Director. All the work ,except for the ED, is done by volunteers and that provides the good feeling of ownership and personal belief in the value of the park. The park is located just a few miles from the urban city and the people of the area fight diligently to keep it "wild and wonderful ".

I love taking my daughter through the park. We love the hiking trails and seeing all the wildlife throughout the park. I love that there is a safe place to go outside. I will continue to take my family to the siguaro national park.

I work as a Park Ranger at Saguaro National Park with a focus on engaging the Tucson community. The support that Friends has provided for our community outreach efforts has been an indispensable asset to our work. In addition to helping the park with biological research and conservation programs in the park, Friends allows us to connect to people outside of the parks to share the importance of this work with the larger community to ensure that we have a well-informed stewards of the National Parks and the Sonoran Desert now and in the future.

I am the education coordinator for the west district of Saguaro National Park and work closely with the Friends of Saguaro National Park (FOSNP). Their support of curriculum-based environmental education programs, Junior Ranger programs, and outreach is tremendous. Without their support, thousands of children would not be able to experience the park, the outdoors, and the mysteries of the natural world. I have seen children visiting the park overwhelmed with excitment, enthusiasm, and wonder. When you see their faces, you know the support the Friends make is significant.

I support the Friends of Saguaro National Park because they bring greater awareness about our natural resources to our communities youth, and they are committed to converving a healthy and sustainable Sonoran landscape.

FoSNP is a great group that has provided incredible added value to managing Sagauro National Park's wilderness and wildlife resources. Professional staff, strong ties to the community, and great events.

I live in Vermont, so the landscape and ecology at Saguaro are quite a bit different from what I am accustomed to. I have been to the park a handful of times, and each time have come away with an appreciate for the unique flora and fauna. That I have been able to understand so much of this exotic environment is a reflection of Saguaro's superbly organized, well-staffed visitor outreach, both in the center established for that purpose and in every interaction with the park's staff and volunteers. I am well aware of the effects of global climate change, and therefore I am deeply concerned about the fate of the park's wildlife as the water table drops and their only recourse is to retreat to higher and higher ground in order to survive. They can't survive if they are stuck unconnected islands. Those who direct the park and ensure the well-being of its animals are, thankfully, addressing these very issues every day in every way they can. I am happy to be able to support them. Thanks to the US government too for preserving places like Saguaro for all of us to enjoy.

The annual fund-raising was so well organized. My questions were answered in a timely manner, and when I arrived, people knew who I was. It is such a pleasure to give directions to our house by saying, "We are just down the road 5 miles from Saguaro Park East". I have observed their programs with children and have been impressed.

I grew up in Tucson right at the edge of the Saguaro National Park. After many years, I returned to the park in fall of 2011 to participate in the National Geographic BioBlitz. I was grateful to find a park that has been beautifully cared for with outstanding facilities and faculty made possible with the support of the Friends of Saguaro National Park. With the rate that Tucson is developing and spreading I would imagine that, had it not been for Saguaro National Park, the Tucson mountains East and West would be nothing but housing and resort developments. This park contains plant life and species found few other places on Earth and fragile ecosystem that calls for the very special care that it is given. I am grateful that I have the Saguaro National Park to return to, as it was when I was a child. I credit Friends of Saguaro National Park and their mission to preserve this very special place.

It is one of the best places in Tucson, I actually lived on spanish trail just so I could go to the monupent. I mainly ride a bicycle. But just going there gives me great joy. I bring my family from out of town there as it one the best places to demonstrate why I love being in Tucson. dj

Saguaro is a great national park especially for families. Your kids will love the interactive exhibits at the visitor center but more importantly they make it so easy to enjoy the great outdoors and learn more about the history, geography, and plant and animal life that make the park such a treasure. Can't miss!

My family and I love visiting the park! Thanks for keeping it clean and educating the public on the importance of maintaining the Saguaro's for future generations to enjoy!

I've been a donor to Friends of Saguaro National Park for the past five years. It's an organization that does incredibly important work to support Tucson's national park. And, it's an organization that communicates with its donors -- keeping us informed of the projects being funded at the park. Saguaro is a national park that consists of two districts -- one on the east side of the city of Tucson, and one on the west side of the city. Both districts have recreational trails for hikers and for equestrian users -- all within minutes of the urban experience of Tucson. As a regular user of these desert trails, I'm happy to donate to Friends, and help them help the park maintain them.

I give Friends of Saguaro National Park a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The organization actively pursues opportunities to partner with local educators (University of Arizona) to facilitate research and provide educational opportunities at various levels. Educating younger generations about our local natural resources is the best way to encourage long-term existence of the Saguaro National Monuments. The upcoming partnership with National Geographic, BioBlitz, is a wonderful sucess story of the groups ability to partner and raise the education level in the community.

The Friends of Saguaro National Park facilitates research, conservation, and education at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona.

I am continually impressed with the commitment of the board of directors and the executive director, Bob Newtson. He finds ways to get things done, bring in funding during tight economic times, and recruit outstanding volunteers and participants to FOSNP and Saguaro National Park programs.

Without FOSNP, the functioning of Saguaro National Park would be very much impaired, much to the detriment of the ecosystem, its inhabitants, and its human visitors.

The Saguaro is the iconic symbol of the southwest but it is also the living friend of the sonoran desert. This amazing cactus is worthy of our best efforts to protect and preserve our natural environment. The Friends of Saguaro NP have struggled with raising money to meet the research and education needed for the park. A 'higher' profile in our community may impinge on other environmental organizations but the more focused goals of FOSNP and very low % spent on maintainining the organization itself makes Friends a superior choise for support and recognition.

I had a great time participating in the Saguaro Census this year. Friends of Saguaro National Park is a great organization with passionate members and donors who provide much needed support for the Saguaro National Park.

The Friends of SNP was organized by several volunteers to assist the park in projects that were not in the regular budget. The efforts began with local support and visitor donations. The Friends group now supports an educational program that provides local teachers with park experience which they are able to include in the regular school curriculum. It is a very popular and much needed program for this park as it is a unique wilderness area that is only minutes away from an urban area. The Friends also fund much needed research on the saguaros and animals of the Sonoran Desert.

The Board of Directors of the Friends of Saguaro National Park is exceptionally strong, with members ranging from the former head of the Udall Foundation to environmental consultant to financial planner. The Friends have many special programs -- research on the Gila Monster, writing grants for building trails and eradicating buffelgrass in the park, and many more. One of my favorites is the Adopt a Saguaro program, which allows contributors to

The Friends of Saguaro National Park has done an outstanding job in supporting Saguaro National Park. Their grant-writing, fund-raising, and innovative ways to increase the visibility of the park have gone a long way to ensure the park's continued viability. The Friends have raised funds for research, community events, park operations, and assistance to our large volunteer core. We are indebted to their passion and commitment for the irreplaceable resources of the park and the diverse Sonoran Desert.

I currently serve on the Board of this organization which with the public's help supports vital activities and services of the Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona. These services would not be possible without the support of this organization!!!

I had a really good time at FoSNP. The staff were very friendly and helpful. It's pretty obvious that the staff care about the park a lot and that helps people enjoy their visit even more. Visiting FoSNP has become an annual tradition for me, one that I hope to keep for many years to come.

I have been a member of the Board of FSNP for a number of years. FSNP is a supporting organization for a spectacular national park surrounding Tucson, Arizona. It raises money to fund educational programs for disadvantaged youngers in Pima County, Arizona and for other programs the park is unable to fund through appropriations. FSNP also seeks grant funds for capital programs. It recently raised $80,000 to build an open-air environmental education ramada. Environmental education, research and recreational are hallmarks of Saguaro National Park. I'm proud to support these programs through the efforts of FSNP.