What connects you?

I am now entering my sixth month as Development Director at PCEC. It has been my great privilege to spend my first months on the job getting to know many of you — and to hear the personal journey that brought you to love Park County. Some of you were born here; some of you were drawn to the rivers or the solitude or the majestic mountains; some of you, like me, followed your hearts. In my case, I met a man in college who was born in Pine Creek. 

The first time we drove down the Paradise Valley, my North Carolina-born heart (19 at the time) swelled with the beauty of it all. I had never before been west of the Mississippi, and I was unprepared for these open skies that at once dwarfed me in the universe but also promised infinite possibility. In that moment, my love was solidified — for the man who would become my husband and for this place.

Watching the snow fall this morning, early in October, I was reminded of my own journey to calling this place home. To be honest, I do not thrive in the cold. I miss the humidity and six months of ripe tomatoes and wearing shorts in November. But living here — in this community that provides a different type of warmth — is worth it. 35 years ago, a group of scrappy conservationists decided to form a non-profit to protect Park County. I am so very glad that they did. 

As we round out our 35th year, I invite you to reflect on your own story of place. Why do you love Park County? Why do you support PCEC? And, will you help us ensure that we can do our work for another 35 years and beyond?

Please help us accomplish our year-end goals. At a minimum, we hope to:

-Enroll 35 brand new members
-Register 35 new monthly sustaining members into PCEC 365
-Inspire 35 members to give a “personal best”

The first 35 people to help move the needle on these goals will be entered to win this beautiful print by PCEC alum and Board Member emeritus Tom Murphy — taken (of course) 35 years ago. There are still a few slots left to be entered into this raffle! 

It’s not too early to begin thinking about your end of year giving, and I hope you will keep PCEC in mind when you do.

In community,

Grace (and George - my favorite hiking companion)