I am working with The White Tank Mountains Conservancy as an Encore.org and Experience Matters fellow for one year. My task is to facilitate the creation of a nature conservancy area for these mountains in the West Valley of Phoenix, Arizona.
The White Tank Mountains lie along the western edge of the urban environment of Phoenix, standing as a natural barrier to the continued expansion of one of America’s fastest-growing cities. The White Tank mountains harbor incredible natural and cultural resources including a robust mule deer herd, mountain lions, javelinas and petroglyphs.
The Conservancy is a diverse coalition of partners working to preserve this area. We will safeguard the natural and cultural resources preserving the incredible Sonoran Desert history, opportunities for education, recreation and ecological services, for generations to come.
I was motivated to do this work because I was looking for an opportunity to match my skills and talents to a purposeful mission. A friend of mine suggested I submit my resume to a great organization here in Phoenix, Experience Matters. That was the beginning of this incredible journey.
It is rewarding everyday as we bring together the various conservation groups, cities, developers, national, state and county organizations dedicated to the preservation our natural resources.
We older adults have unlimited talents, abilities and experience to share in so many ways. It is so fulfilling to realize we can contribute so much and feel useful and purposeful throughout our lives regardless of age.
(Read an article about Les’ work.)