Strengthening Our Foundation

4 months ago
When
Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 17:00 US/Central

Please join us for this fundraiser to support the many ways local nature restores our communities and ourselves!

Evening Includes:

The evening includes farm-to-table cuisine featuring organic vegetables grown right at McDonald Farm and prepared by The Northern Fork, as well as drinks, live music provided by The Downhillers, a dazzling farm sunset, and an opportunity to support our mission. This event is limited to 250 guests, so register early!

Register Now: https://app.betterunite.com/theconservationfoundation-sofa25/Donate

Where
10S404 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville, IL, USA
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FAQ FAQ
How will my donation at "Strengthening Our Foundation" be used?
Gifts support The Conservation Foundation's local work to restore and protect natural areas and the benefits they provide to communities — for example habitat and stream restoration, land protection, stewardship of community green spaces, and environmental education and outreach. If you want details about specific projects or funds, speak with a staff member at the event or request program information through the event registration page.
What can I do before or during the event to maximize my impact?
Amplify your gift by inviting friends or sponsoring a table, setting up a recurring donation, and checking whether your employer matches charitable contributions. At the event, participate in the live appeal or auctions, make a targeted pledge (e.g., restoration, education), and use mobile/online giving to make donating quick and easy. Sharing posts about the event and why you support the cause on social media also encourages others to give.
I want to fundraise from my network — what practical steps should I take?
Create a short personal story about why you support local conservation and post it with a direct donation link or QR code. Set a clear goal, offer matching challenges (e.g., "I’ll match the next $500"), and use email and social media to request support. At the event, have a short pitch ready, bring business cards or a printed link/QR code, and encourage attendees to donate on the spot.
How can I get more involved beyond making a donation?
Talk with staff or volunteers at the event to learn about volunteer restoration days, educational programs, and ongoing stewardship opportunities. Sign up for the Foundation’s newsletter or volunteer list so you receive notices about upcoming projects. Consider joining committees, attending public meetings, or becoming a recurring donor to provide sustained support.
Are there any weather-related or practical precautions I should take for a farm‑style evening event?
Yes — expect changing temperatures as the sun sets, so bring a light jacket or layers. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for farm paths. Pack sunscreen and insect repellent, and bring any personal allergy medications you may need. Bring a charged phone for QR-code donations and networking, and a refillable water bottle to reduce waste. Have a credit/debit card available in case on-site donations or purchases are card-only.
Facts Did you know?
Facts

Access to local green spaces is linked to lower stress, reduced anxiety, and improved physical health — even short visits to nature can boost mood and concentration.

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/urban-green-spaces-and-health

Facts

Restoring native plants dramatically increases habitat for pollinators and other wildlife; pollinator-friendly plantings help sustain local food webs and crop production.

https://xerces.org/pollinator-conservation

Facts

Natural areas like wetlands and vegetated buffers reduce stormwater runoff, filter pollutants, and lower flood risk — protecting water quality and reducing infrastructure strain.

https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure

Facts

Conserving and restoring local forests, grasslands, and wetlands stores carbon and is a cost-effective component of community-level climate mitigation.

https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-insights/perspectives/nature-based-solutions/

Facts

Community restoration projects strengthen social ties and civic pride — volunteering outdoors is a proven way to meet neighbors, build skills, and improve well-being.

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/volunteers.htm

Facts

Investing in local conservation and green infrastructure often pays off economically by reducing long-term public costs (storm damage, water treatment) and boosting property and recreational value.

https://www.tpl.org/parks-and-property-values