Up Front With Sara Parker Pauley

’Tis the season of giving in the spirit of the holidays. Yet there are those who don’t limit giving to a particular season but answer the call to make a difference year-round. As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

As I look back over the year, I’m reminded of countless stories of those who give their most precious resource — their time — to further conservation. One such example is Dan Fuller, who invited me to speak at the annual banquet of Young Outdoorsmen United this past spring. His posse of passionate volunteers host this fundraising event so that they may provide opportunities for youth and their families to engage in outdoor activities all year long. These dedicated volunteers are likely aware of what the research tells us about how giving your time and talents reduces stress, positively increases mental and physical health, and promotes longevity. But they are also driven by something more — seeing a need and doing something about it.

You’ll read inspiring stories of conservation volunteers across Missouri assisting agencies, organizations, and communities by stepping up and giving more of themselves.

They truly embody the spirit of the giving season by making a lasting difference every day of the year. Happy holidays, conservation family! Thank you for all you give year-round.

Sara Parker Pauley, Director
sara.pauley@mdc.mo.gov