Blog

Our Community

Conservation is about people as much as place. Meet the landowners, advocates, volunteers, and partners working to protect what makes the Upstate special.

Discover the people behind the progress below.

Rare + Wonderful: Explore Upstate gems in the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate

Rare + Wonderful: Explore Upstate gems in the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate
Aldon Knight  |  June 2, 2025

Executive Director Aldon Knight introduces the latest edition of our print newsletter, in which we celebrate the rare and wonderful flora and fauna that call this region home.

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ForeverGreen Annual Awards Luncheon 2025

ForeverGreen Annual Awards Luncheon 2025
April 25, 2025

We are grateful to the sponsors, vendors, staff, board members, speakers, and guests who made the 2025 ForeverGreen Annual Awards Luncheon a wonderful celebration of conservation and sustainable growth.

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Generations Campaign update: $7 million goal surpassed

Generations Campaign update: $7 million goal surpassed
Aldon Knight  |  April 24, 2025

We are proud to announce the successful closure of the Generations Campaign! Spanning two years, the campaign surpassed its $7 million goal by almost 25 percent.

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Progress Towards Our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Goals in 2024

Progress Towards Our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Goals in 2024
January 30, 2025

A report for the diversity, equity, and inclusion goals Upstate Forever accomplished in 2024.

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Andrea Cooper honored with Resolution of Commendation and Appreciation

Andrea Cooper honored with Resolution of Commendation and Appreciation
November 19, 2024

At the Fall 2024 Wyche Reception, former UF Executive Director Andrea Cooper was honored with a Resolution of Commendation and Appreciation passed by the Board of Directors.

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A few updates post-Helene

A few updates post-Helene
October 15, 2024

We are happy to report that our staff members and their families are safe. Our offices are open, and although several members of staff are still waiting on power or internet access, we are working as usual.

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Q&A with itty bitty naturalists

Q&A with itty bitty naturalists
Guest Contributors  |  June 7, 2024

We asked four "next generation conservationists" — a.k.a. kids of UF staff members — to share their thoughts on the outdoors.

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Building communities we love

Building communities we love
June 5, 2024

Travelers Rest Here founder Lacey Keigley reflects on the importance of fostering a love of community.

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