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. 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.