Thank you to the 300+ people who joined and supported us at our 16th annual Nature’s Inspiration on Sunday, September 22. With the breathtaking scenery of Wickett Ranch, talented musicians like Jerry Hannan, and our wonderful community, it was a beautiful day in so many ways. Many commented as they left that they felt hopeful about the future and were full of gratitude.

The theme for this year’s celebration was courage. With Joe Cotchett as our honoree and Congresswoman Jackie Speier as our emcee, it was evident throughout the program.

After our hosts Jim Wicket and Magdalena Yesil spoke, and Congresswoman Speier welcomed us, I wanted to make clear in my speech, “the work we do is only possible because of one thing: you. Wonderful people like you who have chosen to come together to give our precious local natural environment the voice it deserves.”

After being introduced by Speier as someone who “eats nails for breakfast, slays dragons before noon, and keeps his superman cape at the ready,” we heard from our honoree, attorney Joseph Cotchett. Joe is known for representing the underdog and fighting for what’s right. He also has a reputation for being a bulldog in the courtroom, and he gave us a glimpse as to why when he took the stage. Joe said we were all honorees, and that it would take everyone of us to make change happen. He also called out our own Lennie Roberts as being his “inspiration for 40 years.”

I was pleased to have the opportunity to announce the launch of our Lennie Roberts Advocacy Fund at the event. Our goal is to raise $2,000,000 by 2022, when the organization turns 60. On staff since 1978, Lennie is regarded as one of the Bay Area’s most respected environmental leaders and today is one of four Committee for Green Foothills advocates on staff. This fund supports our Advocacy Program through which we engage on land-use issues that pose the greatest potential for critical gains or losses for open space and wildlife habitat. Thanks to everyone who contributed to the fund and live auction during the celebration.

I am also very pleased to say that we raised an additional $26,600 on Sunday.

Didn’t get the chance to support our Fund-A-Need but meant to? Make a donation of $50, $100, $500, or $1000 today. Every $50 gift supports our advocacy work on one acre of land for the next year.

As I often do after these events, I walked away with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the wonderful community that makes our work possible. Your continued sense of dedication and courage left me truly inspired.

Check out photos from this year’s Nature’s Inspiration honoring legendary Joe Cotchett.