MTRI has just launched a fundraising campaign to raise funds for research and stewardship for species at risk including Blanding Turtles, Eastern Ribbonsnakes, Rare Lichens and Coastal Plain Flora. MTRI’s Species at Risk Identification & Information Guide needs to be updated and reprinted. New bunk houses are needed for researchers working on these and other projects, and we also have the goal of setting up a small scholarship fund for a deserving student pursuing a career in nature conservation.
Businesses who provide charitable donations to MTRI are now eligible to advertise the 1% for the Planet logo and MTRI is now eligible to receive donations from 1% member companies, placing it among a diverse, global network of environmental organizations. 1% member businesses fuel this non-profit network through their annual contributions, which totaled over $22 million in 2010. Partnership with 1% greatly expands the potential pool of funding to which MTRI can look to for support. Individuals can also donate to MTRI's fundraising campaign by contacting MTRI at 682-2371, info@merseytobeatic.ca, or donating online at www.merseytobeatic.ca.
Over 2,300 non-profits worldwide are included in the 1% network, and over $70 million has been funneled to its nonprofit partners to date.
“The intent of 1% for the Planet is to help fund these diverse environmental organizations so that collectively they can be a more powerful force in solving the world’s problems,” Yvon Chouinard, founder of 1% for the Planet.
“MTRI works hard to protect species at risk in Nova Scotia such as the endangered Blanding's Turtle and Boreal Felt Lichen. Many of these projects rely on both big and small donations from individuals and businesses. Some of our donors, like Colin Gray and Mary Lou Conohan of LIverpool, like to keep their charity dollars right in Queens County where they know that every dollar counts, " says Amanda Lavers, MTRI's Executive Director.
About 1% for the Planet
Started in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder and owner of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for the Planet is a growing global movement of over 1,350 member companies in 43 countries that donate one percent of their sales to environmental organizations worldwide. Each day, more than one new business joins the 1% for the Planet movement. As a network, the 1% community has become a frontrunner in funding the work of environmental groups around the world. To learn more about 1% go to: www.onepercentfortheplanet.org
