Wendy's 2021 Fundraising Campaign for MAEE

Where it all started...

I grew up in Minnesota, catching turtles in the pond behind our house, helping my mom in the garden, and fishing with my dad.  Everything we did as a family was based around the natural world. I knew the importance and benefits of being outside, even as a child. Now, as a mother myself, I try my best to raise my children in the same way.  You can often find us exploring nearby hiking trails (in boots or snowshoes!), having bonfires in the backyard, or adventuring on the north shore of Lake Superior. For us, nature has been accessible and commonplace.  However, not everyone has this luxury. 

Education is the key to change.

In my career, I've worked for nature centers, aquariums, a city park system, school districts and preschools.  Environmental education has always been part of my work, no matter the location or job title. The children's natural curiosity and sense of wonder kept me coming back to the same concept I knew as a child.  Nature is important.  We are part of nature.  We need to protect this natural resource and teach others to do the same.

I first joined the board of directors for MAEE in 2013, and became their first ever Executive Director this past March.  Our work has never been more critical. Schools are looking for a way to remain open, and teaching outdoors is becoming a solution to the challenges that COVID has brought us.  Nature is becoming the respite we all need, especially now.

 MAEE's mission: Support and connect educators across Minnesota.

Our all volunteer board of directors and myself work hard to provide resources, professional development and a network of educators to all Minnesotans.  See what we've been up to: www.minnesotaee.org .

Will you help us support this critical work?

Any amount you can give to support us brings our organization closer to our goal of supporting and connecting educators throughout Minnesota.  If you have a past experience that helped shape your love for and commitment to protecting our planet, please pay it forward by supporting MAEE's mission and work. 

Prefer to support MAEE via check?  You can mail a check to: MAEE, 3815 American Blvd. East, Bloomington, MN  55425 .