Our History
Founded as an independent national nonprofit in 1990, the Institute began as a project within National Wildlife Federation in 1988 with support from the Pew Charitable Trusts. Over the years, our programs have evolved from a primary focus on training to a full range of programs and services. We are honored to serve a wide variety of local, state, regional, and national groups working on conservation and environmental issues across North America and beyond.
Our Mission
To support healthy communities and a healthy Earth, the Institute for Conservation Leadership strengthens leaders, organizations, coalitions, and networks.
Our Vision
We envision a diverse set of leaders equipped to solve the most pressing issues that affect the well-being of our communities and the Earth. Â These leaders effectively engage others, work across sectors and boundaries, and choose and implement strategies that create positive change.
Our Core Values
We believe:
- In the capacity of every individual and organization to create positive change for the enduring health of our communities and the Earth.
- That complex challenges are addressed through inclusive and diverse participation within organizations, communities, and states and regions.
- Success occurs when people are engaging in participatory processes that draw upon their wisdom and collective experience.
- That systems thinking, adult learning theory, popular education and research, and community organizing methodologies all create a powerful practice for enabling positive change.
- Learning occurs when we are challenged by the leaders we work alongside, and when we co-create with them an environment of openness, shared understanding, and mutual respect.
Our Team
ICL’s team includes staff, key support vendors, and a network of talented consultants who work together to achieve our shared mission.