New images of the progress as of May 30th

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Illinois Audubon’s new statewide headquarters is taking shape.  Dry-wall is going up in the new addition and Adams House renovation is progressing with interior wood finishing and painters getting started on the circa 1857 façade of Miss Margery’s wonderful gift to the Society.  Our focus has also turned toward a landscaping plan designed to compliment the Lincoln-era homestead while enhancing the grounds adjacent to the new addition.

After visiting Illinois Audubon’s Adams Wildlife Sanctuary today, I came away feeling a bit overwhelmed and astonished at the progress we’ve made since first discussing this goal over three years ago.  At that time, the Board of Directors voted to embark upon an organizational dream that seemed to be more than just a little hill to climb.  The process included transitioning between Executive Directors and office staff, moving the Society headquarters halfway across Illinois, renting temporary office space and the daunting task of raising literally hundreds of thousands of dollars to complete the construction-renovation plan.  I am pleased to tell you this transition has been seamless.

As for my personal astonishment, it is grounded in the amazing support demonstrated by the statewide membership of Illinois’ oldest non-profit environmental organization.  Simply put, the establishment of our first centrally located Society-owned statewide headquarters could not and would not have happened with you; our faithful members.

Saying “thank you” in this message is less then you deserve.  For that reason I would like to invite you to come to Springfield on Saturday September 20 and be part of the historic and monumental event that will be our headquarters dedication.  In conjunction with that weekend will be Springfield Audubon Society’s hosting of Illinois Audubon’s Annual Fall Meeting.  Beginning Friday evening and running through mid-day on Sunday, you are welcomed and encouraged to plan an adventure to Springfield.  Besides the Saturday dedication, you will learn about the Society’s present land preservation efforts along with being updated about all Society accomplishments over the past year.  Most importantly, you will be surrounded by fellow Society members who will all be taking pride in belonging to Illinois’ premier network of outdoor enthusiasts as we launch into our exciting future together.

If you cannot make it to Springfield that weekend, please know how appreciative our Board of Directors and I are for your support of this organization.  We simply would not be where we are today without you.  On behalf of the Board, please accept our heartfelt thank you for making the Illinois Audubon Society a model for the nation when it comes to member-supported grass-root environmental organizations.  You are, without a doubt, the backbone of the family that is the Illinois Audubon Society.

 
Carolyn Grosboll