My Nonprofit Reviews

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jverardo

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1 reviews

Review for Sempervirens Fund, San Jose, CA, USA

Rating: 5 stars  

As a member of the Sempervirens Fund for over 30 years and as an Advisory Board member for almost as long, I have seen this basically grass-roots organization step up and save thousands of acres of irreplaceable redwood forests and surrounding acreage. The legacy of this incredible group will be treasured and enjoyed for many generations to come. There have always been a wide array of opportunities to participate in support of the organization. Some people love to build trails or lead walks, while others may be happier hosting events or soliciting targeted donations. Fundraising is well-thought out and well-planned. Early-on the organization realized that establishing long-term relationships with those who value the redwood environment would be more satisfying and rewarding to both parties than one-time get-everything-we-can fundraising. The cause is noble, the people are fantastic, the locations unbeatable -- it doesn't get much better than volunteering for and supporting the Sempervirens Fund.

I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...

old growth redwood forests protected in perpetuity in the Santa Cruz Mountains of central California.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

change nothing.

What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...

the appreciation continually shown me for whatever it is that I can contribute. Monetary contributions are essential, but all of the things I have added seem to have been equally appreciated.

The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...

kind, caring, and deeply committed. Most excellent people who are making a difference in the world and realize it.

If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...

complete the acquisition of the remaining groves of redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains area and assist the CA State Park system with on-going maintenance of those areas added to the parks.

Ways to make it better...

I had had more time to contribute.

In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...

the ability to raise funds faster than the lumber and development companies can cut the trees. The economy is always a challenge.

How frequently have you been involved with the organization?

About every month

When was your last experience with this nonprofit?

2010

Role:  Volunteer & I am a member of the Advisory Board (honorary position) and have written articles for the newsletter as well as co-authoring a book for the organization. I have also helped organize volunteer Trail Days in Santa Cruz Mts state parks.