The South Mountain Partnership’s Winter “Power of the Partnership” Event at Gettysburg College
The South Mountain Partnership, based in Boiling Springs, PA, is a beacon of conservation, illuminating the path to sustainable development and community building. One of their pivotal events is the annual Winter Partnership Meeting, an occasion that symbolizes the strength of partnerships and the spirit of celebration.
Uniting for a Cause
On January 26, 2024, the Winter Partnership Meeting took place at the Gettysburg College Dining Hall Atrium. This event was a testament to the power of the partnerships, as it brings together various stakeholders to foster relationships and encourage collaboration. Among the esteemed speakers were Marty Karsteter Qually, Adams County Commissioner; Jenna Smith speaking on Adams County Heritage Plan Update; Katie Hess, South Mountain Partnership Executive Director; and Max Olsen on Appalachian Trail Conservancy ATLAS Workshop .
A Celebration of South Mountain
The Winter Meeting is more than a gathering - it's a celebration of South Mountain and the rich history that has shaped the region. It's an opportunity for conservation partners and interested parties to reflect on the progress made and to brainstorm strategies for future conservation efforts.
Conservation at the Core
At its core, the South Mountain Partnership is about conservation. Large scale landscape conservation. The Winter Meeting serves as a platform to share ideas, discuss challenges, and create solutions for preserving the natural beauty and resources of South Mountain.
Joining the Partnership
The Winter Meeting is an open invitation to join the South Mountain Partnership's mission. Whether you're a potential partner or an interested party, you're welcome to indulge in breakfast snacks and coffee, while engaging in meaningful discussions about conservation.
Spring Partnership Meeting and Science Summit
The next meeting will take place at Shippensburg University on April 12, 2024. The registration will open soon.
Friends of South Mountain
The Friends of the South Mountain Partnership (FOSMP) is a dedicated group working tirelessly to conserve the rich landscape resources of the South Mountain region. Let’s dive into the heart of their mission:
Purpose and Impact:
FOSMP collaborates with partners to preserve agricultural, cultural/historical, natural, and recreational resources.
Their efforts enhance the quality of life and foster a strong sense of place for citizens and communities in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and York counties of Pennsylvania.
Resilience and Longevity:
By securing tax-deductible donations from individuals and businesses, FOSMP ensures that the South Mountain Partnership remains a resilient and powerful force.
They fund yearly Flex-Grants to the community and actively support SMP events and opportunities.
Challenges and Solutions:
Historically, the Environmental Stewardship Fund through Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources provided consistent funding.
However, recent events threaten this traditional source of support.
FOSMP steps in to build a lasting presence, ensuring South Mountain’s conservation legacy endures.
New Horizons:
Through a partnership with The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC), FOSMP now accepts federally tax-deductible donations.
They formalize a corporate sponsorship program and gain administrative support for key events.
Join them in celebrating South Mountain’s beauty and resilience!
Support Their Cause:
Become a Friend, make a donation, or explore sponsorship opportunities.
Visit Friends of the South Mountain Partnership to learn more and contribute to this vital conservation effort.
The Future of South Mountain
The success of the South Mountain Partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration. With the continued support of its partners and the community, the future of South Mountain looks bright.To learn more about the South Mountain Partnership and its events, visit their website. Get involved and be part of the conservation journey.Remember, every partnership, every celebration, every small step towards conservation can make a significant impact on the future of South Mountain.
