Strength in Numbers. . .and Expertise

By Don Young, Executive Vice President

The combination of a talented staff and an army of resolute volunteers results in big benefits for waterfowl and wetlands

The melding of DU's volunteer energy with the expertise of Ducks Unlimited staff has produced extraordinary success stories. The relationship, in fact, continues to grow stronger-just as the organization has grown. A bond has been forged, based on mutual respect, and trust.

Volunteers are fundamental to the DU organization. In particular, they are the cornerstone of Ducks Unlimited's grassroots fund-raising efforts. And theirs is an admirable conviction. They give of themselves and their personal resources for the benefit of a worthy and noble cause.

The human element is amazing. I have had the privilege of watching the world's finest volunteers in action for a number of years, in both the U.S. and Canada. In the U.S. alone, our volunteer ranks are 50,000. Clearly, Ducks Unlimited's policy direction comes from its volunteer board of directors. Our inspiration and momentum are derived from grass-roots-level individuals coupled with science-based staff driving conservation and fund-raising activities.

The synergy between volunteers and staff has served to strengthen Ducks Unlimited's position among those in the conservation world. So has our bottom line: More than 80 cents of every dollar raised by DU goes directly into habitat conservation. And this is vitally important as the need for wetland conservation is more urgent than ever-every dollar matters.

You can help us grow. Spread the word about Ducks Unlimited, the recognized world leader in wetlands conservation. Introduce a friend to our organization. Enroll your children as Greenwings. Sign up to help out with a local committee.

Waterfowling can be a common denominator that brings people of diverse backgrounds together. The demographics of the Ducks Unlimited family is testament to that. It is also clear that those who develop a sense of admiration and stewardship for waterfowl and other wildlife are those who are most apt to work to conserve vital habitat.

Ducks Unlimited volunteers and staff. Working together to ensure a bright future for this marvelous resource. Making a difference, together.