As we approach the end of another year, it’s time to reflect on the strides we’ve made in protecting native plants and landscapes—and to focus on the work still ahead of us. Wild Ones is guided by a simple, but powerful, goal: to connect people and native plants for a healthy planet. But we can’t do it alone.
While membership dues cover a portion of our operating costs, it’s the generous support of donors like you that allows us to expand our reach and deepen our impact. During this year’s Annual Appeal, we’re aiming to raise $75,000 to fund critical programs that drive our mission forward.
Here’s a closer look at the impact your donation can have.
Connecting Youth to Native Plants
The Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education (SFE) program was inspired by the legacy of Lorrie Otto, the founding inspiration for Wild Ones. Lorrie’s life work with students, young and old, was to cultivate wonder, reverence and awe for Nature and all Her creatures. For nearly 30 years, this program has relied on the generosity of donors who believe in the importance of cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards.
The SFE Program has connected youth to nature by funding native plant gardens at schools, nature centers, and community sites across the United States. To date, this grant has awarded over $115,000 to more than 300 youth-focused projects in 42 states and US territories. This program transforms school yards into living learning laboratories that foster environmental literacy, enhance STEM learning, and inspire future conservation leaders.
With the support of donors like you, we hope to fund the creation of 20 new educational gardens this year. Every gift brings us closer to making this a reality.
Creating Inspiring Native Garden Designs
Donating to Wild Ones also supports the creation of new Native Garden Designs. These free resources make it easier for anyone to plant native species in their own yards and empower new and experienced native planters to restore their local landscapes and support native wildlife.
This year, we aim to add five new designs to our library. Imagine the impact of thousands of individuals using these designs to transform their properties into thriving, diverse ecosystems. Your donation helps make this possible.
Providing Nationally Recognized Expertise
Knowledge is the foundation of action, which is why Wild Ones offers national educational webinars that reach thousands of people each year. Your support enables us to host expert-led webinars where we explore topics that inspire and guide native landscaping efforts nationwide.
With your help, we plan to host five webinars next year, including one featuring renowned ecologist Doug Tallamy. Each webinar will reach a broad audience and inspire action in communities across the country.
Fueling Education and Advocacy
One of the most powerful tools to create lasting change is education. As a supporter, you are helping to provide valuable educational resources that inspire individuals and communities to embrace native plants.
Your donation can help fund a full year of engaging, educational blog content that inspires and informs thousands of readers. The Wild Ones blog is a vital resource for anyone looking to learn more about native plants, sustainable landscaping, and environmental stewardship. Each post offers practical tips, expert insights, and inspiring stories that empower individuals to transform their own spaces into thriving ecosystems.
Thanks to your support, we can continue to provide high-quality, accessible content that reaches a diverse audience—from experienced native planters to those just beginning their journey. One article at a time we can expand our reach and spark change in communities across the country.
Supporting Local Chapters and Growing Our Community
At the heart of Wild Ones is a network of over 125 local chapters that engage their communities with a wide variety of garden tours, native plant sales, restoration projects, and many other programs. These chapters rely on national support to thrive. Your donation helps us provide the tools, resources, and guidance that empower chapters to succeed.
When you donate, you’re not just supporting Wild Ones as an organization—you’re fueling a movement. You’re helping communities come together to restore natural landscapes, support biodiversity, and create healthier spaces for future generations.
Now is the Time to Make an Impact
By donating to Wild Ones, you are planting the seeds for a more sustainable future. Every dollar you give is an investment in the Wild Ones Mission that will echo through generations.
In addition to traditional cash donations, you may consider exploring alternative giving methods. There are many other great ways to support Wild Ones, including donating stock, making grants from Donor Advised Funds, or opting for a Qualified Charitable Distribution from IRAs. These avenues not only enhance your giving power but also may provide you with significant tax advantages. If you have any questions, or would like more information please contact [email protected]
For those who wish to leave a lasting legacy, consider becoming a lifetime member or including Wild Ones in your estate planning. These thoughtful gifts ensure that your commitment to native plants and the environment will continue to grow long into the future.
No matter how you choose to give, know that your generosity is creating a healthier planet and empowering communities to take action. Let’s end this year strong and reach our goal together!
Thank you for your dedicated support and for standing with Wild Ones. Together, we can plant the seeds for a future where native plants and natural landscapes thrive in every community.
Looking for other ways to support Wild Ones?
Beyond donating, there are many ways you can help support the Wild Ones mission. Check out some of the ways below!
- Become a member: When you become a member you are showing your support for a sustainable future. In addition, membership dues play a crucial role in maintaining the operations of Wild Ones.
- Give the gift of Wild Ones: Gift memberships are a great way to get your friends and family involved in Wild Ones.
- Shop for Wild Ones branded apparel and gifts: Show your support for Wild Ones by shopping from the Wild Ones Merch Store.
- Check out the Wild Ones Reading List: This list has been Wild Ones staff and volunteers to feature a wide variety of great titles. When you shop from the Reading List, you are not only supporting local bookstores, but a portion of your purchase is also donated back to Wild Ones.
- Certify your habitat: When you certify your habitat you are contributing to the larger vision of 5,000 gardens for the wild. Plus, when you certify you get an official sign to display, a great way to show your neighbors what you are doing and inspire them!
- Become a volunteer: Whether it is with your chapter, or through one of our national opportunities, Wild Ones relies on the hard work of volunteers to carry out our mission.