Mission and Vision
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. These leaders effectively engage others, work across sectors and boundaries, and choose and implement strategies that create positive change.
Who we work with
We work with a variety of groups including nonprofits, foundations, federal, state, local, and tribal governments, academic institutions, coalitions, and collaborations.
Our Core Values
We believe in:
- Amplifying collaboration. Individuals, organizations, and communities have the greatest potential to co-create positive change when working together toward common goals.
- Inviting all perspectives. Successful outcomes are generated by diverse and inclusive participation that draws upon collective experience and wisdom in an environment of openness, shared understanding, and mutual respect.
- Fostering a spirit of learning. Each project and partnership is approached with curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to share knowledge and make change.
- Being of service. The Earth needs trustworthy stewards who are committed to serving others, finding strength in connections, and making a difference.
- Building an equitable future. The arc of history demonstrates the systemic injustices that have harmed people and land and how communities have organized to create lasting change. We draw from both to guide our work with leaders and groups.
Our History
The importance of leadership for the Earth – and the urgency of need to support leaders at every level – has never been greater. Founded as an independent national nonprofit in 1990, the Institute began as a project within the 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, environmental, and environmental justice issues across North America and beyond.
Our Team
ICL’s team includes staff, board, and a network of talented consultants who work together to achieve our shared mission.