"With my kids, I try to bring excitement to any and everything we might encounter. Signs of fall? Signs of spring? A bird, a cloud formation, a snergly tree? We explore together with a sense of wonder. My own curiosity led me to the study of life (biology), and eventually to The Peregrine Fund."

"It's one thing to read about birds and look at pictures, and another to see them flying in the wild, but holding one on your hand for that fraction of a second adds a whole other level of engagement. This tiny creature sitting on you, on a journey that started in Canada and won't stop until Central America, brings conservation to light in a remarkable way."

"Raptors don't need to be endangered if we can help it, nor should biologists! I teach tree climbing methods to biologists in Latin America so they can safely access and study life in the forest canopy. We are not only changing people's careers, we instill new levels of self-confidence earned by growing way out of one's comfort level."

"Being around passionate staff, incredible volunteers, and so many guests has given my daughter Hagan an incredible start to understanding, and being a force in, conservation. When one of our raptor trainers stopped to say good morning, Hagan explained all about condors, why they are endangered, and how The Peregrine Fund is helping. Proud mama!"

"I really love using art to connect children to nature. Near our newest Ridgway's Hawk release site in the Dominican Republic, they created amazing images with baby hawks and flying hawks, and they are so proud of their work—it makes my day! My favorite is when the kids include themselves in the picture!"

"As a falconer and a biologist, I have been able to share those experiences with many children and young adults.  Watching a Peregrine successfully hunt and then observing it feed up close are moments a child will remember.  Kids are hands-on oriented; touching a Peregrine Falcon should leave a strong impression for another generation!"

Serving in the Peace Corps in Senegal, I initiated a "Taking care of the environment" program at the elementary school. The children's 'aha' moments blew me away! Now I have the same feeling when visitors tell me how they can conserve raptors in their own back yards. It's incredibly fulfilling to witness.

"We love giving interns hands-on experience and skills for a career in wildlife research. The look of awe the first time they hold an iconic raptor reveals the formation of a memory that lasts a lifetime."