As an organization, we often talk about how an investment in the River is an investment in the future. Over the past year, FOR made some important investments to further back the future of the organization and the future of natural resource protection and conservation.
First, we invested in young people. Not only did we provide inspiring educational programs to our region’s youth, but we are helping to develop future professionals in our field. Through internships and fellowships, FOR is providing real world experience to up and coming professionals. These young people inspire and energize our veteran staff with their creativity, can-do attitude and positive outlook. By working alongside young people, we get to see a little glimpse into the future of this work, and it looks bright!
FOR is also investing in our physical spaces. We recently opened a second office on the Middle Peninsula and are moving our Headwaters office to a larger space in the Culpeper area. Both of these changes were necessary in order to accommodate our growing staff. In addition, both of these moves provide opportunities for partnership and collaboration. Plans are in progress to expand and revitalize our headquarters office space in Fredericksburg. Keep an eye out for more on this in the new year!
We are also investing in public spaces! We believe that the River is a shared resource for all to enjoy. That’s why we have been advocating for more public access points, and we have had some major successes. The upper part of the Rappahannock has never been more accessible! We can confidently say there is now a water trail in that section of the River.
There are so many things to be proud of in 2022, it was hard to choose just a few to highlight! Thank you for investing in our river year after year. I hope you enjoy hearing our “Best of 2022” moments.
For the River,
Daria Christian
