At the beginning of last year, we announced our six core values: Discovery, Engagement, Belonging, Resilience, Interdependence, and Sustainability. These values encapsulate what we and our community believe that Westwind should be. They are actionable steps for us to implement our mission and vision. As a staff, we consider how all aspects of Westwind fit into these values. We ensure that our actions, programs, and projects align with at least one, and often more, of our values. This month, we are focusing on Sustainability. By practicing sustainability in our work, we can ensure that Westwind will continue to exist for the next generations to walk our wild shores.
Environmental Sustainability
“At Westwind, we conserve human and natural resources, we consider our impacts, and we work to mitigate the effects of climate change.”
Currently, we are finishing remodels on our camper cabins to improve insulation and make them more energy efficient. Our recent renovation of our Wilson Lodge bathrooms utilizes water-conscious appliances and will be the model for our upcoming Cascade Head renovations. We have recently revamped our compost system, opting for a multi-steam approach that utilizes pigs and goats to minimize food that enters the landfill. Over the past several years, our Site Manager, Brian, has made long-lasting repairs and renovations to our electrical and plumbing systems. This reduced leakage and removed the need for yearly, stop-gap repairs. Well-functioning systems, give us confidence that Westwind can move forward with bigger and more ambitious sustainability projects.
Educating the next stewards
Through our summer camps and spring and fall programs, Westwind is a leader in outdoor education. Our programs focus on connecting campers with the outdoors and building a lasting connection to nature. Even a week of summer camp can have long-lasting effects on how children view the importance of protecting our environment.
In addition, our partnerships grow our educational impact. Since 2020, high school students from Sabin-Schellenberg Center have been the driving force behind our cabin remodels. Partnerships with our local Eagle Scout troop have built informational kiosks equipped with beach cleanup stations. In the spring and fall, we host MESD Outdoor School which provides outdoor learning opportunities for Portland area students.
All of these programs and partnerships connect children and families to the outdoors. They plant the seed to become the next generation of stewards for Westwind and their communities.
WSG Sustainability
Led by our Executive Director, Andy Lindberg, Westwind has prioritized organizational suitability. Since 2020, we have maintained all of our director-level staff. This level of consistency has allowed us to prioritize long-term projects and ensure that we have the continuity to make them a reality. Our cabin and bathroom remodels, as well as the growth of outdoor education programs like Mushroom Camp and Spring Foraging Camp are the result of this sustainability. Support to maintain our staff and create a sustainable working environment is essential to the long-term goals and projects of Westwind.
Help us be sustainable
In times when non-profits are facing uncertain funding futures, we are so thankful for the incredible support of our community. Without the financial contributions of our donors, we could not do the work that we do.
One of the best ways that you can help Westwind be sustainable is by becoming a monthly donor. Even a gift as small as $5 a month adds up over time. It shows us that we have committed support for a sustainable future. When we know we have your monthly support we can dream big and continue to build the future of Westwind.
Become a monthly sustainer today!
