Two organizations recognized at ERCF’s Donor Appreciation and Awards

Essex Region Conservation Foundation Executive Director Tim Byrne presents Boen Chen from ADM (left) and the Friends of the John R. Park Homestead with Conservation Foundation Awards. (Source: Essex Region Conservation Authority)

The Essex Region Conservation Foundation (ERCF) has recognized two organizations at its Donor Appreciation and Awards.

The ceremony recognizes those who support ERCF conservation projects and programs.

The Friends of the John R. Park Homestead Inc. were given the Clifford Hatch Conservation Foundation Award.

“For decades, the Friends have been raising funds to support maintenance and restoration at the Homestead through a variety of activities,” read a news release from ERCF.

“These funds are then donated back to the Homestead for capital projects. In recent years, the Friends contributed to the sawmill roof replacement and the Monarch Butterfly exhibit.”

It continued, saying in 2020 and 2021, thousands of dollars were donated for the new Conservation Centre.

ADM Cares was presented the Essex Region Conservation Foundation Award for Outstanding Corporate Contribution. It recognizes significant contributions to the Foundation’s fundraising goals.

ADM has donated almost $100,000 to the Greenway trail system over the last two years. It also supported with five watershed cleanups across the region, removing 755 pounds of litter from the Belle River, Pike Creek, Little River, Turkey Creek, and the Canard River.

“Over and above what they are accomplishing in our corner of the world, ADM Cares is making a global impact with its philanthropy, particularly in the areas of sustainable agriculture, food security, and advancing education, said Tim Byrne, Foundation Executive Director.

“We are so grateful to both ADM Cares and the Friends of the John R. Park Homestead for their incredible investments in a future of sustainability for our region and beyond.”

Supporters who have helped raised more than $650,000 for conservation projects were also thanked.