Currents
It ’ s true . Everybody loves a party . We should know , we ’ ve thrown a few of them ourselves ! But at least in our case , the party is NOT about the party ; it ’ s about funding the research that has been so effectively covered in this issue . For 19 years , our supporters , our readers , and our partners have encouraged and enabled us to do the work so necessary to the current and future health of the flora and fauna of our beautiful island .
In addition to explaining some of our initiatives , this issue is also a sincere thank you to our partners who have encouraged and enabled us to continue our research . They have provided us with the resources to help educate and inform our constituents about the sensitive nature of our barrier island environment .
We also recognize the financial support that has provided and encouraged our understanding of everything from the mink in the Kiawah River to our current project — the “ dinosaurs ” of our ponds and creeks , our ubiquitous alligators . Their support , along with your generosity , has moved us forward as we work to preserve the many aspects that make Kiawah unique .
You have contributed to everything from virtual land at $ 25 per square foot ( the average cost of our purchases of land ), to adopted bobcats , to dinner and cocktails at fundraising events — all in the name of habitat preservation , education , and research .
Speaking of events , anyone who has ever hosted one knows the tremendous effort required to make them happen . We have been extremely fortunate to have our right-hand , Jack-of-all-Trades , Queen of Hospitality , Laura VanDerwerker , working behind the curtain pulling all the strings . She gives an expert , personal touch to every celebration she oversees and has helped the Conservancy to raise the funds necessary to support our mission and our many research projects . And of course , we also owe a debt of gratitude to our supporters who have opened their homes , given their time , and attended these events throughout the years .
Finally and as always , it is important that we reflect on all that has been accomplished and all those who have helped us along the way . Our sincere thanks go out to the Town of Kiawah Island , the Kiawah Island Golf Resort , the Kiawah Island Community Association , and the Kiawah Partners . All of these entities have supported us in our efforts to ensure that our research is effectively targeted , thoroughly conducted , and well communicated . We are grateful to you all . Thank you ! NK
Donna Windham Executive Director
6 Photo by Pamela Cohen