SAHC is a special organization. My wife and I have been involved with SAHC for a number of years and have volunteered regularly. Our experiences have always been gratifying and we have met some of the nicest people you will ever come in contact with.
The staff is very talented and a pleasure to work with. They're work is incredibly important since they protect some of the most beautiful places on the planet. I highly recommend getting involved by joining one of their regular hikes or volunteering on one of their projects. You won't be disappointed and you'll have a blast!
My husband and I have served in many ways with SAHC from the beginning of this special land trust. We have seen it grow, become more professional, utilize dedicated volunteers from NE Tennessee and Western N.C, and become nationally accredited. Our work with the staff, board and wonderful volunteers has inspired and encouraged us to do all that we can to uphold the mission and vision of SAHC. Preservation and conservation of our mountains and farmland are both done at a very high standard. We have served as board members as well as volunteers. Currently we are not on the board.
I have had the most amazing experiences working and volunteering for Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC). I started my career right out of college as an AmeriCorps intern with the organization. Working for SAHC I learned what it meant for an organization to be a proactive leader in our environmental community. SAHC not only acquires land for protection they educate our communities on the importance of protected land for us and for future generation. SAHC is an amazing nonprofit organization.
What a great partnership SAHC offers! Not only does this wonderful organization work across multiple private and public groups to preserve, protect and conserve forests, farmland, waterways and mountains, it continually seeks ways to enable people across all walks of life to enjoy the beauty of our great outdoors. As a long time employee of an industrial manufacturing company in the foothills of the East TN Appalachian Mountains, it has been impressive to work with SAHC and see firsthand their dedication to protecting and preserving this area of our country for people to experience and enjoy. It's a great place to live and we owe the hardworking folks at SAHC a huge thanks for ensuring future generations have these wonderful opportunities, too.
“We raised our 3 children with a love of nature and the outdoors. Every summer we hiked the Smokies and Blue Ridge Mountains, traveled to waterfalls for swimming and sliding, and camped along mountain rivers where we went tubing, biking, fishing, and rock hopping.
We also raised them to understand the importance of philanthropy. Each Christmas, they are given an amount of money to donate to the organizations of their choice. SAHC is always on the list. Their decisions are focused and thoughtful, and we are proud of their passion for donating to organizations they know make an important impact in our community and in our world.
Without organizations like SAHC, the places where we had so much fun hiking, swimming, and camping as they grew up would disappear. We are happy our entire family believes in and supports an organization that is so committed to conservation. After all, the beauty around us is a gift to appreciate and protect.”
Kim Barnhardt, Charlotte NC
This is the most active and forward thinking nonprofit that I have had the privilege of working with. SAHC anticipates the needs of the public, states and feds for various conservation needs and makes it happen! With the main goal of conservation this organization serves those seeking recreation use, land protection, habitat protection, local farming best practices and more. Our local and regional communities are well served, many without knowing it, by the committed and organized people behind the scenes.
As a fifth year member of the board, I never cease to be amazed at the professionalism of the staff and volunteers who accomplish large tasks and make it look easy. Southern Appellation Highlands Conservancy (SAHÇ) is a well-oiled machine that is honest, patient, and steady to reach their goals. Many negotiations go on for months even years for a sale or easement.
It is a privilege to belong to such a wonderful conservation land trust.
Courtney Blossman
I have been involved with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy for about 8 years and was introduced by a mutual friend who knew of my love for the mountains of WNC where I had grown up and then raised my children. We have always loved camping and hiking and so I had a natural desire to support the preservation of the gorgeous mountains and valleys where we live. The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is the premier land trust organization in North Carolina. The leadership is experienced, knowledgeable, and caring. The staff is 100% dedicated to its success. I know that my contributions of time and money are well spent in preserving farmland, water resources, and the spectacular views in my mountain community.
As a long time supporter of SAHC I am impressed by the growth without ever compromising the enduring mission. The staff is passionate and devoted to a cause far greater than any of us can fully comprehend individually. The protected landscapes provide scenic views, clean water, recreational uses and unique habitat forever. It is the work our grandchildren will be proud of.
"Highland Brewing Company has been a partner of SAHC for several years, helping raise awareness about the importance of land & water conservation. With over 70,000 acres protected, this organization has played a significant role in strengthening a local economy that relies on outdoor recreation and tourism. Their work continues to improving our quality of life by protecting the mountains we live in, plant & animal life as well as the water that we drink. Their commitment to service should continue to be recognized as one of the most important environmental leaders in the region." - Drew Stevenson, Highland Brewing Company."
Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is an accredited land trust. Accreditation means Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy meets national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy has demonstrated to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission its commitment to excellence. Accredited land trusts meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. These land trusts demonstrate their commitment to excellence by adopting Land Trust Standards and Practices, the ethical and technical guidelines for the responsible operation of a land trust, and meeting the accreditation requirements drawn from them. Learn More: http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/about.
Review from Guidestar