Dear friend,

Mt Jo is more than just a mountain; it is also a classroom. And I am reminded of that as I hear the sounds of children laughing and chatting as they crest the summit. I watch as they rush across the open rock, exclaiming at the impressive view of the surrounding high peaks. In their midst, a pair of ADK educators join in the celebration. It is one of 23 annual classes participating in ADK’s Marie L Haberl School Outreach Program: Three Seasons at Heart Lake. 

Surrounded by a vast expanse of forest, rising high peaks in the background, and clear open skies above, I can see the awe on their faces as they take it all in. And whether the children fully understand the impact of what they are experiencing, it is nonetheless a life-sustaining lesson about the importance of experiencing and caring for the natural world. 

Since 2003, ADK has been connecting children with nature through this program. Indeed, more than 4,000 kids have joined ADK on the trail. Many for the very first time. Over the course of the school year, they witness the splendor of fall, explore animal tracks in fresh snow, and examine the birth of new life in spring. 

By connecting children with the joy and wonder of the natural world, ADK is cultivating stewards for life, generating the next generation of caretakers. Given how much work it takes to protect public lands like the Adirondack Park, imagine the state of things if people like you and me never experienced that connection. And because our work never stops, with new threats to nature and the public lands we love, it is up to us to ensure that the next generation is prepared to handle these challenges so that places like the Adirondack Park remain protected.

Every child is a potential steward of our public lands and waters. They can be future advocates, educators, and trail workers. But only if we do our part. Through Three Seasons at Heart Lake, ADK is teaching kids about the natural world so that they, in turn, become champions for it.

Today, as we face new environmental challenges both in the Adirondack Park and across the world, it is upon us to ensure that this passion for nature and the protection of public lands is passed on to the next generation. Your support today ensures that ADK reaches more children and continues to inspire the next generation of land stewards and advocates.

Thank you,