Dear readers,

I’m writing to you from parental leave after the birth of our second child. When our first was born, I soon realized that birds helped me connect to the larger world even when I was homebound with a newborn. Though it was winter, I could hear Blue Jays, Northern Cardinals and more through the windows. Once our son was old enough to be bundled up for short walks, I got to visit small parks nearby with him and see birds surviving winter in our urban landscape. It was just a few months until our son started pointing at birds flying across his field of view, babbling excitedly. Birds, I realized, would help me raise my son along with everyone else who was helping. At three years old, he knows several species by sound. Now we’re beginning the adventure again with our youngest. 

Though going on leave means scaling back my commitments, ASO helps me feel connected even while I’m mostly focused on parenting. I’m able to write, stay in touch with people over email and Zoom, and occasionally run out to an event. Even in a more limited way, I’m grateful to take part and help however I can.

There is no ideal age for people to engage with ASO. We welcome people of all ages, and many of our events are kid-friendly — especially our upcoming Student Art Show. The stereotype is that birdwatchers are retirees. While the enthusiasm and service of older people is a crucial part of ASO, it’s not the whole story. Just like raising a child, supporting an Audubon chapter takes a village. If you are a busy parent like me, if you’re a young person, if you feel in any way that you might not fit into the “birding scene” despite your interest in birds or the environment — please just reach out! We are always looking for new volunteers to contribute in whatever way they can now, wherever they are in life. You might be surprised to find that we had been looking for someone with exactly your talents and gifts. We are enriched by people in different stages of life who bring unique abilities and perspectives to their roles with ASO.

What I’ve learned so far through a career entirely in nonprofits and education is we sometimes fail to connect enthusiastic people to the opportunities that will let their skills shine. As ASO’s president — even on leave! — I want to keep doing my part to make those connections and to continue supporting new generations of conservationists. 

Feel free to get in touch with me anytime at cgearin@audubonomaha.org. Find our volunteer form on our website.

Thank you!