Our mission to conserve wild Florida is only possible thanks to the unwavering support of donors like Nathan Smith.
Nathan was born and raised in Tarpon Springs and now resides in Odessa. He and his wife enjoy discovering nearby natural gems like Lake Francis Nature Preserve, accessible by a short bike ride from their home. Another favorite spot is Anderson Park, where Nathan treasures quiet mornings on a lakeside bench, watching birds, squirrels, and boaters. It’s a place steeped in nostalgia, reminding him of kindergarten field trips to the park in the 1980s.
Nathan has been a monthly donor to our Conserving Florida’s Wildlife fund since April 2022. “I first noticed the Foundation during its work to feed manatees impacted by habitat loss due to fertilizer runoff,” he said. This work sparked his desire to take a more active role in conservation.
“As I’ve grown older as a Florida native, I’ve come to discover a desire to be a good tenant during my existence here,” said Nathan. “It’s important to me to live in harmony with our environment, to replace my divot, leaving things a little better after I’m gone.”
His passion for conservation is rooted in his own experiences as a boy scout, enjoying countless camping and backpacking adventures in Florida’s great outdoors. “At the time, I think I took for granted the availability of those outdoor places in Florida to go enjoy,” he reflected. “If I can do even a little to help make those things available for the next generation and for the wildlife that calls those places home, that would be deeply rewarding.” Choosing a favorite Florida animal wasn’t easy for Nathan, but he ultimately landed on two: sandhill cranes and gopher tortoises.
Join Nathan in making a monthly gift to conserve habitats, save species, and preserve the natural beauty that makes our state so special. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
