EARLY THIS FALL, an anonymous leadership donor pledged to increase their support to New Jersey Audubon’s Lorrimer Sanctuary with an additional $250,000. The pledge was made to inspire others to donate for this important project, challenging other supporters to match their donation up to $250,000. These additional funds are critical to complete the expansion phase of the Lorrimer Project. This generous pledge brings their total support to an astonishing $1.25 Million for the renovation and expansion, which will double the center’s classroom space, enabling increased programming, and so much more. “We couldn’t be more thrilled and grateful for this outstanding leadership support that will make nature programs at Lorrimer more accessible to all and enhance the value that the center provides to local and surrounding communities for generations to come,” states Kimberly Armenti, Vice President of Development and Communications.
The new classroom will bear Tom’s name, which the donor noted is especially appropriate as Tom’s office was located at Lorrimer and he also lived on the property with his family throughout his tenure with the organization.
A strong conservation advocate and loyal supporter of New Jersey Audubon for decades, our donor described how a memorable first impression made all the difference. Recalling an event that took place in the early 2000s at the New Jersey Meadowlands, our donor spoke of first learning about New Jersey Audubon’s conservation expertise and advocacy.
A hearing was held to save a vital 600-acre wetland tract from development and New Jersey Audubon’s then-Vice President for Conservation and Stewardship, Richard P. Kane, provided testimony. His words helped to preserve the tract, which was later named in his honor as The Richard P. Kane Natural Area. Inspired by this display of passion, knowledge, and determination, our donor became invested. “Rich gave a talk that just blew my mind. That is when I realized what New Jersey Audubon does…that it is not just about birds; it is a holistic approach to the environment, and it totally changed everything I was doing. That is how I got started with the organization and I have appreciated everything since.”
One of the first projects the donor became involved with at Lorrimer was funding the installation of deer fencing to protect the sanctuary from munching mouths, noting: “Deer overpopulation is a big problem.” Today, the grounds hold a formal forest stewardship plan and, as with all New Jersey Audubon center grounds and sanctuaries, the organization seeks to restore model habitats for wildlife, ensuring that they are open for all to appreciate and learn to care for the natural world. Our donor soon began attending bird festivals in Cape May, President’s Circle dinners, walks at Lorrimer Sanctuary, and connecting with New Jersey Audubon staff. Reflectively our donor noted, “It really changed my life. I admired Tom Gilmore. I appreciated his knowledge, his humility, and his quiet way of saying things.”
Decades of generosity on this donor’s part have advanced New Jersey Audubon’s mission, protecting wildlife, preserving vital habitat, and improving so many lives through the enjoyment of nature. While wishing to remain anonymous, our donor wanted to share what giving means to them and to encourage others to make a difference: “I get a lot more pleasure from it than those who receive it.”
Donor support means that New Jersey Audubon is always there for you, the birding community, the wildlife, and for people of all ages to discover the wonders of nature and learn to care for the environment that sustains us. As our donor eloquently stated, “New Jersey Audubon offers the most holistic approach to environmental care that I know. It is not just the birds; it is native plants, it is everything. It leads you down the road to caring about where you are, and that is so important these days.”
YOU CAN SUPPORT LORRIMER SANCTUARY. Donate today by visiting our website at njaudubon.org/lorrimer-donate to support Phase 2 of the Lorrimer Sanctuary renovation and help us meet our match and complete this exciting project. For more information, contact Kimberly Armenti, Vice President of Development and Communications at 908-396-6005.
By Mindy Lynch
