National parks tell important stories—stories of courage, of ingenuity, of ancestry. Some stories resonate loudly, repeated throughout history. Other stories seem more deeply embedded within these cultural landscapes. As the president and chief executive officer of Western National Parks Association (WNPA), I am honored to help preserve the stories of the more than 70 parks we support. Our partner parks are breathtaking, awe-inspiring, and they tell the stories of the West, as varied and abundant as the parks themselves. As we listen to these stories, we seek to amplify and protect the diverse voices who speak truths, preserve history, and honor the future of the national landscape. WNPA’s partner parks are there for you, inviting you to find your next adventure, to give yourself the gift of relaxation, recreation, and joy that comes with each national park experience. With each visit, you create your own park story, forever a part of this vast and beautiful network of history, culture, and natural wonders. WNPA supports parks that honor and preserve cultural sites and sacred lands, parks that protect areas of historic significance, parks that provide a place for families, friends, and loved ones to explore and connect while hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and so much more. In these public lands, stories of the past mingle with experiences of the present, giving hope for the future.
Your support of WNPA helps us connect people with parks and I’m excited to see you out there creating new park stories and connecting through educational programs, natural landscapes, quiet reflection, and more. Our critical work for national parks—including supporting scientific research—would not be possible without your generosity. Thank you.
SOWING NATIVE SEEDS
Arizona’s Casa Grande Ruins National Monument led a pollinator garden project with a group of 30 students from Imagine Elementary School. Using native seeds, a ranger guided an in-classroom program, teaching third, fourth, and fifth graders about native plants and pollinators. The kids planted their seeds, learning to care for and grow their seedlings until they were ready for transplant. During a ranger-guided field trip, students transplanted their seedlings into the earth, feeling the power of this sacred landscape. The pollinator garden, nourished by the natural abundance of the desert, is now a part of the visitor experience. With your support, these kids are forever a part of Casa Grande Ruins National Monument.
STRENGTHENING CULTURAL TIES
New Mexico’s El Malpais National Monument hosted a Native American storyteller series, strengthening understanding and connections to still-thriving Native cultures. Sharlyn Sanchez shared Acoma pottery designs, explaining the meaning behind these designs, and telling stories of the Acoma culture. As part of the same series, artist Robert Torres shared his San Carlos Apache and Yaqui cultures through the stories behind his intricate jewelry. Deepening awareness and strengthening the park’s ties with Native culture is a vital part of protecting the future. Together, we work to amplify voices and create platforms for growth, healing, and connection.
California’s Pinnacles National Park hosted the Chalon Indian Council as they presented an educational program for young visitors. Through your support of WNPA, the Council researched and prepared creative and educational cultural craft activities, which included handouts and giveaways, and travel and lodging for participants. Chalon tribal members and allies presented an informative and engaging session. Visitors were smudged by elders, and former Chairwoman Arianne Chow Garcia led a sacred prayer. Songs were offered in the Chalon language, with a translation for allies and visitors. This event embodies the spirit of collaboration, healing, and cultural learning. Partnerships between the National Park Service and Native tribes mean the protection of cultures and landscapes now and for the future.
REMEMBERING THE PAST
Kansas’s Nicodemus National Historic Site provided trail brochures telling the story of the oldest and only remaining African American settlement west of the Mississippi. These brochures expand the knowledge of many people who want to learn more about the beauty and excellence of Black history. Visitors can immerse themselves “in the heart of the Nicodemus settlement and in the lives of those who settled here.” Nicodemus preserves the stories of the people who first established the settlement. With your support, we can continue to learn from and listen to the stories of so many who fought for their right to be free.
INSPIRING THE FUTURE
Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve was able to recruit and hire interns for their Summer Conservation Internship Program. With support like yours, this program facilitates the growth of future stewards of the land. During this paid internship, young adults aid in research, contribute to meaningful park projects, enhance the visitor experience, and gain valuable work experiences that make them more competitive in careers in public lands. By the end of this program, interns earn educational awards and, depending on the length of their service, further qualifications that allow for students to be hired directly by NPS without competition.
We need you to join us now, because support of all kinds can lead to big results.
Your tax-deductible gift of $150 or more provides recreational opportunities, supports scientific research, connects communities, and cultivates the next generation of park enthusiasts. Please visit www.wnpa.org/donate. Together, we can ensure that we continue to listen to all perspectives, amplify stories, and help protect parks for everyone for all time.
There are many ways to connect with WNPA, visit our partner parks, shop at our online store, attend our events, share your impact in national parks with your friends, or visit us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Thank you for your support, and if your contribution crossed paths in the mail with this letter, please accept my deepest thanks.
