Why I Support The Georgia Conservancy
My happiest memories as a child almost all take place in the outdoors. Roaming the woods, running our small boat on the river, swimming in the ocean. And ever since I have carried my love of the outdoors with me. As I grew through the 60s and 70s, so did society’s awareness of the importance of the environment. Whenever I hear someone question the importance of the EPA or groups like the Georgia Conservancy, I shout out, ‘Do you understand there was a time in this country when rivers actually caught on fire!’. True fact.
Moving to Georgia in the 1980s eventually led me to landing a job as the host of TVs first and only environmental news magazine, Network Earth, thanks to Ted Turner’s concern for the environment. Airing weekly on TBS, our crew traveled widely reporting on pressing issues of the day, and the more I learned, the more I realized what a complex and long-term set of problems protecting the environment is. Also during this time I was part of the organizing team for the 20th anniversary celebration of Earth Day in Atlanta, with its focus on the emerging issue of environmental racism. An issue that has only grown with time.
As with most of us, a new chapter opened up in my life and I turned to building a business and a family. Today, my wife, daughter and I run Kudzu Antiques + Modern and its sister store in Sandy Springs. I am proud of what we have built, but regret that it pulled me away from my time focusing on environmental issues.
Looking for ways to contribute, we joined the Georgia Conservancy, as well as other environmentally focused groups, and do what we can to support those critically needed organizations. If my time as an environmental journalist taught me anything, it is that the only thing that stands in the way of environmental disaster, and that is not too strong a word, are organizations like the Georgia Conservancy and the ongoing support of people like you and me. Just look at what is happening today in this country; the attempts to roll back years of progress, the efforts by those whose only goal is the short-term profit for their lifetime with no regard for the future. If those of us who care do not stand and fight, the future will be bleak.
I have been lucky to have had some awe-inspiring moments on this Earth. In the mountains, on the sea, in the woods. And nothing nourishes your soul, or your body, more than those moments of connection with our natural world around us. Without that, we live a life of concrete, asphalt, and our ever present ‘smart phones’. And, as has been said, ‘if you never take off your shoes, the earth becomes covered in leather’ (or plastic).
So why do I support the Georgia Conservancy? Because I want my grandchildren to enjoy some of the amazing beauty that this state and this world have to offer. And to live healthy lives that only a healthy environment can support. I love the sense of community and caring that the supporters of the Georgia Conservancy embody, and it is always a joy to spend time with them on trips and outings. So we make it easy and set up a monthly donation, knowing that we are connected and contributing. Why get involved? Because you’ll get back far more than you ever give.
By George Lawes