Appalachian Trail Conservancy
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is a volunteer-based, private non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of the 2,175-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail, a 250,000-acre greenway extending from Maine to Georgia. Its mission is to ensure that future generations will enjoy the clean air and water, scenic vistas, wildlife and opportunities for simple recreation and renewal along the entire Trail corridor. Plan to hike the Appalachian Trail? The ATC site gives you all the details from trail maps to protecting the trail.
www.appalachiantrail.org
American Hiking Society
The American Hiking Society promotes and protects foot trails and the hiking experience. Its National Trails Days celebration takes place nationwide the first Saturday in June, bringing together thousands of outdoor enthusiasts for trail dedications and maintenance, gear demonstrations, instructional workshops and more.
www.americanhiking.org
Conservation Alliance
Merrell is a member of the Conservation Alliance, which helps to fund grassroots organizations and their efforts to protect rivers, trails and wild lands—natural areas where outdoor enthusiasts spend their time. Formed in 1989, the Conservation Alliance is a volunteer-only board with corporate members donating time and money, allowing the Alliance to donate 100% of its membership dues to community based organizations. The Alliance now has more than 130 member companies, and will disburse $700,000 in 2007.
www.conservationalliance.com
Project Athena
Project Athena is a non-profit foundation that encourages women to not just survive—but go on to STRIVE after enduring life altering yet life affirming medical conditions. Project Athena provides coaching, equipment, travel expenses, entry fees, and, most importantly, encouragement and inspiration for women who desire to unleash the athlete within and strive for the goal of a lifetime—whether that be to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, cross the finish line of an Ironman Triathlon, or fall into the arms of a proud family at the end of a local 5K.
www.projectathena.org
Youth Outdoors Legacy Fund
The Youth Outdoors Legacy Fund offers children of all walks of life a chance to get out, experience nature and develop a lifelong appreciation for our environment. With urban sprawl, shifting family structures and new technologies, today’s youth are less and less active. Through the fund, children will have an opportunity to experience the joys of the outdoors and the benefits of an active lifestyle, laying the foundation for a healthier life. And by seeing the wonders of nature firsthand, children are more likely to work to protect the environment as the leaders of tomorrow. It turns out Mother Nature makes an excellent teacher too. In its first year, YOLF funded programs that introduced over 12,000 kids to the outdoors—and the momentum is building.
www.youthoutdoorslegacyfund.com