It appears there is a mix-up in the provided information. The organization Friends of the Forest Preserves does not match the website adirondackwild.org, and the EIN 141743681 is also not verified in the search results. However, based on the available data about Friends of the Forest Preserves, here is an article about that organization:

Friends of the Forest Preserves

Overview

Friends of the Forest Preserves is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the protection, promotion, and improvement of the forest preserves in Cook County, Illinois. Founded in 1998 by a group of concerned citizens, the organization aims to ensure that these natural resources continue to thrive for future generations.

Mission and Activities

The mission of Friends of the Forest Preserves is rooted in three core principles: Protect, Improve, and Include. The organization focuses on safeguarding the health of the forest preserves through political advocacy, ecological restoration, and community outreach. It believes that access to healthy nature is a human right and works to ensure that these natural spaces remain accessible and vibrant for everyone.

Ecological Restoration

Friends of the Forest Preserves engages in extensive ecological restoration projects. These efforts include removing invasive species, restoring hydrology, conducting prescribed burns, and replanting native species. The organization relies on government contracts, foundation funding, and private donations to support these initiatives. Volunteer workdays are also coordinated throughout the year to maintain the progress of restoration projects.

Conservation Corps Program

The Conservation Corps program is a central component of the organization's work. This program recruits adults and teens, often from underserved communities, to participate in conservation work. Participants learn valuable skills, including habitat restoration, while earning a wage for their work. The program not only benefits the environment but also fosters community engagement and develops future leaders in conservation.

Advocacy and Governance

Friends of the Forest Preserves plays an active role in advocating for the forest preserves by attending all Forest Preserve District board meetings. The organization makes policy and budget recommendations to ensure the district is managed effectively and independently. It also works to fend off land grabs and ensure that the preserves are protected from misuse.

Impact

Through grassroots advocacy, Friends of the Forest Preserves has helped protect 70,000 acres of forest preserves in Cook County. The organization has also contributed over 500,000 hours of hands-on habitat restoration work. Additionally, it has created more than 2,400 jobs for adults and teens through its Conservation Corps program.

Financial Overview

As a non-profit organization, Friends of the Forest Preserves relies on contributions, program services, and fundraising events to fund its conservation and advocacy efforts. Donations are crucial for supporting the organization's mission and are tax-deductible.

Membership and Community

Friends of the Forest Preserves has over 2,500 members who contribute to its effectiveness in protecting and enhancing the forest preserves. The organization hosts various events throughout the year, including wellness activities, volunteer workdays, and fundraisers, to engage the community with nature and promote conservation awareness.