Letter from the Executive Director
Dear Friends and Fellow Nature Enthusiasts,
As we close out our 50th year, I find myself moving from a place of reflection toward imagining what the future of conservation will look like at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan.
Kim Karn, Former Executive Director
Over the course of this anniversary year, one thing has become especially clear: our achievements are possible because people stood up and said, “I will.” They volunteered their time, treasure, and talent to turn a shared vision into reality. I am proud to have played my own small part in this remarkable story and to have contributed to keeping nature nearby for generations to come.
It has also become clear that while the LCWM community is made up of extraordinary leaders who have made a tremendous impact on our region, no one person has done this work alone. Our strength is found in our partnerships—in the ways we listen, collaborate, and work together toward something larger than ourselves.
It gives me tremendous hope to see how so many people have come together to ensure that their dreams for West Michigan have blossomed into a vibrant network of connected, healthy habitats. The lands we protect are a testament to what is possible when a community shares a vision and commits to seeing it through.
The future no doubt holds challenges ahead. But I am certain of this: our community of conservationists is ready to carry this spirit and vision forward.
It is with that confidence in LCWM’s future that I share that I will be stepping down as executive director this October to pursue an exciting new career opportunity. It has been an amazing seven years, and it has been my honor to be of service to this organization and community.
For five decades, each generation of conservationists has built upon the work of those who came before, protecting more land, welcoming more people to the cause, and carrying forward a shared vision for a West Michigan where nature is always nearby. I take heart knowing that LCWM is in a strong position to build upon our successes as the organization turns its focus to the next 50 years of conservation.
There is much to celebrate, much to be grateful for, and still more to do. I cannot wait to see where you take it next.
Warmly,
Kim Karn, Former Executive Director