Friends December Newsletter

This spectacular view from America Hill is worth the climb. Looking out across the bays of Francis and Maho at floating clouds is a joy and a privilege. Vistas like this make dreaming possible and remind us how important it is to protect the natural and cultural resources in this place.

Today we protect the future and celebrate a sea turtle season that has already seen a record 3,273 hatchlings venturing out into the big, wide ocean. We thank volunteers who have patrolled our beaches for nesting activity since July and others who are working on our trails to keep them safe for hikers and clearing historic sites so that they may live on.

Applications for our two undergraduate scholarships are now open gifting us the opportunity to support young Virgin Islanders as they pursue their dreams. Friends of Virgin Islands National Park is committed to building a pipeline of education opportunities including our School Kids In The Park, Learn To Swim and Summer Trail Crew programs—and internships and scholarships like these.

Right now, we need your support to help continue all of these programs and make a difference in this small corner of our beautiful world. Make donating to the Friends the one thing you do today to make a difference tomorrow. Your action is important!

Markets are soaring to record highs. If you are one of the beneficiaries, there has never been a more impactful, and tax-savvy time to give. By donating appreciated stock to Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, you can avoid capital gains taxes and support vital conservation, education, and cultural preservation efforts. It’s a powerful way to turn growth into good.

We are so grateful to supporters like you and wish you and your loved ones a healthy and happy holiday season!

This month our newsletter includes updates on our turtle and trails programs, the opening of scholarship applications, information on seminars, boat trips and volunteer opportunities, and more. Read the newsletter here.