From the forests to the sea, NW Natural is celebrating the beauty of the Pacific Northwest with eight grants totaling $45,000. “We’re proud to call the Pacific Northwest our home,” says Von Summers, NW Natural’s community relations manager. “Which is why we feel so strongly about supporting the many organizations that care for our local habitats and recreation areas.” These grants represent just one area of focus for NW Natural’s Corporate Philanthropy Fund. Each year, the company gives nearly $1 million to local nonprofits, made possible by NW Natural shareholders. The grants are awarded to organizations that support the environment, arts, and with a special focus on children and families at risk. This year’s grant recipients focus their efforts on both urban and natural environments. NW Natural’s 2018 environmental grant recipients include: Forest Park Conservancy: $7,500 | The mission of the Forest Park Conservancy is to protect and foster the ecological health of Forest Park, maintain and enhance the park’s extensive trails network, and inspire community appreciation and future stewardship of this iconic urban forest as a gift for generations. Friends of Trees: $7,500 | With a mission to bring people together to plant and care for city trees and green spaces in Pacific Northwest communities, Friends of Trees has planted nearly half a million trees and native plants since 1989. Columbia Springs: $5,000 | Columbia Springs, an urban natural area in Vancouver, Washington offers a unique setting where educational experiences foster greater awareness of the natural world, inspiring stewardship. The Freshwater Trust: $5,000 | The Freshwater Trust builds and implements the tools and methods that can accelerate results for freshwater ecosystems. Nature Conservancy: $5,000 | The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people, including approximately 30 project sites in Oregon. Northwest Earth Institute: $5,000 | Northwest Earth Institute is a non-profit organization that inspires people to take responsibility for Earth. Oregon Coast Aquarium: $5,000 | The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located in Newport, on the beautiful Oregon Coast. The mission is to create unique and engaging experiences that connect visitors to the Oregon coast and inspire ocean conservation. Portland Parks Foundation: $5,000 | The Portland Parks Foundation mobilizes financial and popular support to ensure a thriving and accessible parks system for a healthy Portland. Find more information about NW Natural’s Corporate Philanthropy Fund, as well as the company’s signature philanthropic effort, Programs of Focus, at: https://www.nwnatural.com/AboutNWNatural/Community/CorporateContributions
