Turning Concern into Conservation

This blog is the first of a monthly series by IWF Philanthropy Coordinator Emily Fisher, written with transparency and the goal of sharing all the ways you can support the Idaho Wildlife Federation (IWF.)

Emily Fisher and her father hoist iconic Idaho Chinook Salmon. Photo: Fisher/Idaho Wildlife Federation

Before beginning work here at IWF, I remember wanting so badly to help preserve Idaho’s outdoor opportunities, but finding it hard to imagine that one person could make a real difference. I didn’t know where I could even start in protecting them for future generations to enjoy. My search for answers led me to IWF, where I learned something I had taken for granted.

It turns out that almost every great thing we have today is the direct result of someone deciding to stand up and advocate for it. Before starting here I didn’t know much about the history of conservation. I didn’t know that the protection of Idaho fish and wildlife started less than 100 years ago when, in 1936, concerned citizens flew to Washington D.C. to discuss the rapid decline of fish, game, and habitat. Those people came back from D.C. and started the Idaho Wildlife Federation and, two years later, established the Fish and Game Commission after running the campaign that led to the passage of the 1938 Citizens Initiative. I also learned that other beloved areas like the Boulder-White Clouds and Frank Church Wilderness were protected, or the middle fork of the Salmon river kept undammed,  thanks in-part to grassroots campaigning and organizing by IWF.

I have to admit that growing up here in the Gem State I kind of just assumed that the accessibility of our public lands, fish, and wildlife were just the way the world was- that it was naturally that way and always would be. After leaving Idaho  for a few years I learned the meaning of the phrase, “you have to leave before you can come home”. 

Working in philanthropy has been eye opening (and I’ll admit- surprisingly) uplifting. Instead of convincing people to give something, which I had initially expected I would be doing, I get to meet and befriend people with a shared vision and passion for Idaho’s future.

In my short time at IWF, it’s become clear our supporters aren’t content with throwing their hands up or letting Idaho’s future play itself out. They are the people still advocating for the lifestyle and opportunities we all love, and most (if not all) go out of their way to invest in and support our work towards its protection- how incredible is that? 

That’s probably the most important and encouraging thing I’ve learned in the last seven months doing this work- that people want to help. The ones that don’t often just don’t know that their contributions will make a difference. 

As someone on the inside who used to wonder those same things, I’m here to emphatically tell you they do. It sounds cliche but as one person we can only do so much, but together we can make a real difference protecting and enhancing the things that make Idaho great.

My goal with this blog is to share some of my insights from working with IWF as a Philanthropy Coordinator. I want to be transparent and honest, sharing the wins and the challenges that we face everyday behind the scenes. If you haven’t already- subscribe to our newsletter for blog updates and consider getting involved today by making a financial contribution or reaching out to me at efisher@idahowildlife.org.