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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20260406T191908Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T191908Z
UID:10000056-1776261600-1776265200@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Endowment for our Refuge's Future
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a quick start to thinking about an Endowment to help secure the future of your Refuge.  There are many details involved\, but on this webinar\, we’ll give you an outline of how to start\, and what challenges to expect. Such as: \n\nDeciding what the purpose of your Endowment would be. This will vary a lot from refuge to refuge but deserves a lot of thought.\nFinding a Foundation or other organization to maintain and invest your Endowment\nCreating a starting mailing list\, or group of founding donors\nForm a committee to deal exclusively with the Endowment and fundraising\nMaintaining records and documenting progress\nReaching goal and deciding on disbursements\n\nOur presenters were instrumental in starting the endowment at Hakalau Forest NWR HI in 2015. It is now just short of $3M and they plan to reach $3.5M by the end of this calendar year. \nPresenters \n\nSharon Scott\, Board member of Friends of Hakalau Forest NWR\, and Chair of the Endowment Committee.  Co-Founder of Hakalau Endowment\nMike Scott\, Former Board member of Friends of Hakalau Forest\, and co-founder of Hakalau Endowment.  Mike was also a USFWS endangered species biologist in Hawaii from 1974-84\, and conducted a 5-year survey of all native forests on the main islands of Hawaii\, which contributed to identifying Hakalau Forest as a native bird “hot spot”\, and helped get the Refuge established.\n\nSharon and Mike have been involved with Hakalau for over 40 years\, and still work toward protecting its species and habitats. \nSign Up!\nWe look forward to seeing you then\, \nNational Wildlife Refuge Association &\nCoalition of Refuge Friends & Advocates
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/endowment-for-our-refuges-future/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-06-151240.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20260304T144551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T121241Z
UID:10000053-1773842400-1773846000@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Dark Skies and Wildlife
DESCRIPTION:🌝 Just in time for International Dark Sky Week (April 13–20\, 2026)\, join us for a conversation about how nighttime light affects wildlife\, habitat\, and human health. 🌌 \nWhether urban\, rural\, or somewhere in between\, every national wildlife refuge has a nighttime light footprint. Bill Kowalik\, PhD\, Board Chair of DarkSky Oregon\, will share what light pollution means for wildlife and people\, plus practical steps we can take on refuges and in our communities to reduce our light footprint. \nJanelle Wicks\, Executive Director of Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge\, will highlight their annual Malheur After Dark event and share ideas for celebrating the night sky as a natural resource at your refuge. \nO’Brien Prize spotlight: During the webinar\, we will highlight Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge’s Malheur After Dark event\, a project supported in part by the National Wildlife Refuge Association’s 2024 O’Brien Prize for Refuge Friends. We will also share a brief update on the O’Brien Prize and ways Friends groups can start thinking about project ideas for this year’s opportunity\, request for proposals releasing soon! \nPresenters\nBill Kowalik\, PhD is the Board Chair and a founding board member of DarkSky Oregon. He has three degrees in the earth sciences and decades of experience in remote sensing and technology development. \nJanelle Wicks is the Executive Director of Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and helps lead community-based programs like Malheur After Dark that connect people to refuges through the night sky \nSign Up!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/dark-skies-and-wildlife-2/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PAHR_NightSky_2022-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20260203T181928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T181928Z
UID:10000050-1771423200-1771426800@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Marine National Monuments & Their Role in the National Wildlife Refuge System
DESCRIPTION:Take a break from winter’s cold; come explore the warm\, colorful and vast Marine National Monuments of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Susan White will lead this webinar; guiding us through the Pacific Marine National Monuments and explaining how they are managed as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System. \n😎 Put on your sunglasses\, forget about the snow and ice\, and learn about these special watery places. 🌊 \nPresenters\n \n\nSusan White retired from the USFWS after 28 years and has spent about 36 years in conservation overall. Her career took her from Florida’s Keys to J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge\, and to Hawai’i\, with stops in Washington\, DC\, and Detroit River International Refuge. Susan retired as Deputy Area Supervisor of the vast Pacific Islands refuges and Marine National Monuments.\nBarry Christensen retired from USFWS in 2011 after a 31-year career managing national wildlife refuges and wetland management districts throughout the U.S.\, including a 3.5-year term as Refuge Manager of Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge.\n\nSign Up!\n  \n 
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/marine-national-monuments-their-role-in-the-national-wildlife-refuge-system/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-03-131410.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251217T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251217T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20251203T162531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T165328Z
UID:10000045-1765980000-1765983600@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Let's Celebrate!
DESCRIPTION:NWRA has declared December 17\, 2025\, Refuge Staff Appreciation Day. In recognition of this day\, let’s celebrate the National Wildlife Refuge and Hatcheries systems\, their dedicated staff and loyal Friends groups with Jim Kurth\, Retired Deputy Director of the USFWS as he reminds us all why we do what we do. \nJim will reminisce a little about his time with the Service and why we can be so proud of the work we help to support.  Then\, he has agreed to field your questions about the Service. If you have a question for Jim\, please send it to coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com  There should also be time for “live” questions during the webinar. \nJim Kurth began his career as a biological technician with the U.S Forest Service on the Wayne National Forest in Ohio. He transferred to the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service in 1979 as assistant refuge manager at Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge. He served as an assistant refuge manager at Loxahatchee NWR in Florida\, Bogue Chitto NWR in Louisiana\, and Seney NWR in Michigan. He then served as refuge manager of the seven refuges in Rhode Island and Connecticut. After a tour in the Alaska Regional Office in Anchorage\, he served as the manager of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from 1994 to 1999. \nJim then moved to the Washington Office and served as Deputy Chief (1999-2011) and Chief (2011-2015) of the National Wildlife Refuge System\, then Deputy Director of the Service from 2015 until his retirement in June 2019. \nSign Up! \n 
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/lets-celebrate/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-03-112006.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251119T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251119T151500
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250729T133228Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T112803Z
UID:10000034-1763560800-1763565300@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Leading with Purpose – Building Stronger\, More Connected Wildlife Friends Groups
DESCRIPTION:This three-part webinar series is designed to equip leaders and members of Wildlife Friends Groups with the insight and tools to strengthen their communities\, deepen collaboration\, and lead with clarity in complex times. Together\, we’ll explore how to create cultures of belonging without weaponizing identity\, ensuring that all feel seen and valued without reinforcing division. We’ll examine strategies for navigating change with integrity\, so your group can remain mission-focused while adapting to evolving challenges. Finally\, we’ll dive into the principles of transformational leadership\, helping you inspire action\, cultivate trust\, and guide your group toward lasting impact. This series offers practical frameworks\, space for reflection\, and a chance to align around shared values while honoring difference. \nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/84310909165?pwd=tTeEFiL92WRPxgIrENS6DIed1H4zWZ.1\nMeeting ID: 843 1090 9165\nPasscode: 647750 Join instructions\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/meetings/84310909165/invitations?signature=w4WBMtkScuebAx4n7djpjm9CAlZbSxdJi6G3xWRujWQ
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/leading-with-purpose-building-stronger-more-connected-wildlife-friends-groups-3/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-25-131240.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T203000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20251013T154111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251013T154111Z
UID:10000044-1762457400-1762461000@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:A History of the American Conservation Movement and the Refuge System
DESCRIPTION:Join Alex Harper for a captivating journey through the history of conservation in the United States—from the 1800s to today. This presentation traces the key moments that shaped the formation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Wildlife Refuge System\, culminating in the establishment of Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. \nAttendees will gain a deeper understanding of how conservation policies evolved\, how decisions are made to preserve the ecological integrity of refuges\, and why these places matter now more than ever. \nWe all love Bosque del Apache\, but it can sometimes be difficult to know how to make a difference. Through a mix of historical context and stunning wildlife photography taken at the refuge by Alex throughout the years\, this talk will connect past and present conservation efforts. \nAlex will also discuss the risks posed by potential rollbacks of environmental protections—including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act—and what such changes could mean for the refuge’s future. \nThe presentation will conclude with Friends Board President Jonathan Manley highlighting what’s happening on the ground at Bosque del Apache and how Friends is continuing to protect the refuge’s diverse flora and fauna. \nQuarterly OASIS Zoom calls are now open to the public\, so please invite your friends and family to come learn about our beautiful refuge and theOASIS\, a sustaining community of hope! This is the perfect time to join as a monthly donor by giving a monthly gift in any amount that feels right for you – you’re in control of when to start\, stop and make changes to your level of monthly giving! \nRegister Now
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/a-history-of-the-american-conservation-movement-and-the-refuge-system/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-114007.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251029T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251029T151500
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250729T133206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T120121Z
UID:10000033-1761746400-1761750900@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Leading with Purpose – Building Stronger\, More Connected Wildlife Friends Groups
DESCRIPTION:This three-part webinar series is designed to equip leaders and members of Wildlife Friends Groups with the insight and tools to strengthen their communities\, deepen collaboration\, and lead with clarity in complex times. Together\, we’ll explore how to create cultures of belonging without weaponizing identity\, ensuring that all feel seen and valued without reinforcing division. We’ll examine strategies for navigating change with integrity\, so your group can remain mission-focused while adapting to evolving challenges. Finally\, we’ll dive into the principles of transformational leadership\, helping you inspire action\, cultivate trust\, and guide your group toward lasting impact. This series offers practical frameworks\, space for reflection\, and a chance to align around shared values while honoring difference.
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/leading-with-purpose-building-stronger-more-connected-wildlife-friends-groups-2/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-25-131240.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250924T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250924T151500
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250729T133126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T120317Z
UID:10000030-1758722400-1758726900@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Leading with Purpose – Building Stronger\, More Connected Wildlife Friends Groups
DESCRIPTION:This three-part webinar series is designed to equip leaders and members of Wildlife Friends Groups with the insight and tools to strengthen their communities\, deepen collaboration\, and lead with clarity in complex times. Together\, we’ll explore how to create cultures of belonging without weaponizing identity\, ensuring that all feel seen and valued without reinforcing division. We’ll examine strategies for navigating change with integrity\, so your group can remain mission-focused while adapting to evolving challenges. Finally\, we’ll dive into the principles of transformational leadership\, helping you inspire action\, cultivate trust\, and guide your group toward lasting impact. This series offers practical frameworks\, space for reflection\, and a chance to align around shared values while honoring difference.
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/leading-with-purpose-building-stronger-more-connected-wildlife-friends-groups/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-25-131240.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250917T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250917T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250902T165132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T145909Z
UID:10000036-1758117600-1758121200@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Laws that Make the Refuge System Unique
DESCRIPTION:Save the Date\nTopic: The Laws that Make the Refuge System Unique – Understanding the legal foundations of the National Wildlife Refuge System and what makes these lands different from National Parks and National Forests. \nSpeaker: Robert Fischman:\nRobert Fischman is professor of law at the Indiana University School of Law. His book on the management of the National Wildlife Refuge System is the standard reference in its field. He writes about public land management\, endangered species recovery\, federalism\, adaptive conservation\, climate change and environmental analysis. \nSign Up!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/laws-that-make-the-refuge-system-unique/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/unnamed1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250827T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250827T131500
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250729T132146Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T174446Z
UID:10000029-1756296000-1756300500@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Common Ground and Connection - Webinar Series
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an engaging and practical webinar designed to help find common ground and foster alignment rooted in shared values presented by Ryan Virden. In a time of increasing polarization and burnout\, this session offers tools and strategies to move beyond surface-level agreement and into deeper connection—strengthening relationships\, cultivating trust\, and building the foundation for more effective\, values-aligned collaboration. Whether you’re navigating internal tensions\, seeking to unite around a common purpose\, or just looking to deepen connections this session will offer clarity\, encouragement\, and actionable insight. \nHere is advance notice of a 3-part series of webinars that Ryan Virden will be presenting separate from CORFA and Refuge Association’s normal webinar series. These webinars\, focused on “Leading with Purpose – Building Stronger\, More Connected Wildlife Friends Groups”\, will be free and open to any who want to participate. More information coming soon. \nPresenter \n\nRyan Virden is an accomplished educator\, author\, and cultural advocate based in Minneapolis. With a keen focus on nurturing inclusive environments\, Ryan collaborates with individuals and organizations to cultivate mindsets and skills for effectively building relationships and communities across diverse contexts. Ryan’s extensive experience includes working with organizations nationwide\, guiding them towards establishing restorative cultures within their environments. Notably\, he held the role of Restorative Justice Coordinator for Minneapolis Public Schools and currently serves as a professor in the peace and justice department at St. Thomas University.\n\nSign Up!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/common-ground-and-connection-webinar-series/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-25-131240.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250813T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250813T183000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250707T140021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T140021Z
UID:10000026-1755106200-1755109800@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Fast\, Flamboyant & Feisty - Hummingbird Basics with Sandra Noll
DESCRIPTION:This delightful program\, presented by hummingbird expert Sandra Noll\, brings you into the secret world of these unique\, tiny birds whose high-speed lives are largely invisible to us. Details of hummingbird biology and behavior are revealed through slow-motion video and beautiful photographs. The human-hummingbird connection is also explored\, along with tips on attracting these tiny gems.
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/fast-flamboyant-feisty-hummingbird-basics-with-sandra-noll/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-07-095818.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250728T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250728T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250719T152744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250719T152958Z
UID:10000027-1753711200-1753714800@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Of Dollars & Cents: A Beginner's Guide For Friends Board Members To Reading Financial Reports
DESCRIPTION:As board members\, you play a vital role in upholding the organization’s mission and ensuring responsible management of its financial and other essential resources. \nIn this presentation\, you’ll learn how to read and interpret the core financial reports that guide effective nonprofit oversight: \n\nBalance Sheet: Shows the organization’s financial position at a specific point in time\nProfit and Loss Statement: (also called the Statement of Activities) – Details income and expenses over a period\nGrantor/Donor Statement: Tracks restricted funds and how they are being used\nBudget vs. Actual Report: Compares planned income and spending with actual results to monitor progress and adjust as needed\n\nUnderstanding financial reports will give you the tools to assess the financial health of your organization\, make informed\, strategic decisions and keep donors\, funders\, and other stakeholders well-informed. These tools will enable you to fulfill your fiduciary responsibility and support the organization’s long-term sustainability. \nPresenters \n\nJon d’Alessio\, Treasurer of the CORFA Board as well as Friends of Bosque del Apache NWR and Friends of Midway Atoll NWR. Other nonprofit experience includes serving as CEO of the Fred Finch Youth Center.\nWillem Stoeller\, a CORFA Board Member and Past Treasurer and Vice President of Friends of Tualatin River NWRC. He also serves as Treasurer for the Friends of Champoeg State Park in Oregon.\n\nSign Up! \n  \n 
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/of-dollars-cents-a-beginners-guide-for-friends-board-members-to-reading-financial-reports/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-19-112407.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250719T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250719T173000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250719T204953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250719T204953Z
UID:10000028-1752940800-1752946200@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:SHARE zoom call on July 22nd
DESCRIPTION:CORFA is hosting the next Friends SHARE zoom call on July 22nd at 4:00 pm EST. This month we are focusing on our wonderful volunteers! We will be sharing ideas and programs that different Friends groups use to recognize and honor their Friends volunteers. \nWe’d love to have you come prepared to share what you are doing\, have done\, or plan to do. What works? What lessons have you learned? What changes have you made? Given the current situation are your Friends volunteers stepping up to do more? How can we thank them for their time\, talent and treasure and let them know we value them? \nWe have three people willing to start the ball rolling by telling their stories: \n\nSamantha Zeiner\, Director of Operations\, Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge\nMaria Montag\, Board President\, Friends of California Condors Wild and Free\nRepresentative TBD\, Friends of Ding Darling\n\nFollowing these presentations and Q&A time\, we’ll have time for a quick rountable for any other announcements or questions. \nPlease join us on July 22nd at 4:00 pm EST and an RSVP to coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com by July 19th would be appreciated! Registration is required in advance to receive the zoom link \nOur August SHARE Call will be on August 26th at 4:00 pm EST and we will be having a fun book discussion focused on books that take place on a refuge\, involve the refuge system or FWS characters. They can be fiction or non-fiction. \nThe Zoom call is only for a member of a Friends group or their staff. Feel free to share this invite with your board members and other Friends groups. To ensure everyone can fully express themselves\, ask tough questions\, have their comments heard and respected\, and be assured that conflict will be respectful the call will not be recorded\, and we ask all participants to review and agree to our Safe Space Guidelines. \nHeads Up for August! \nKinda like 4th grade…we hope you will come prepared with a 3–5-minute book report on book you’ve read and share with us the title and author of course plus a summary and what you liked about the book. \nWe’re attaching the list of suggestions we have so far but please let us know if you have more and we’ll be glad to add them. \nWe are looking forward to getting together. \nCORFA’s Friends SHARE Team \nMike Baldwin\, Ceal Craig\, Cheryl Hart\, Joan Patterson\, Polly Sheppard\, Willem Stoeller\, Joan Van Gorp\, Kathy Woodward\, Tom Worthington\, Maria Montag
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/share-zoom-call-on-july-22nd/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Primary-Logo.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250521T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250521T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250508T131023Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T131023Z
UID:10000019-1747836000-1747839600@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Increasing Awareness & Support Of The Refuge System: Update On FWS's Branding Work
DESCRIPTION:During this webinar Kristen Gilbert from the Refuge System’s Division of Visitor Services and Communications will give an update on the FWS’s partnership called America’s Wildlife Refuges and the the on-going branding work to increase awareness and private support for the National Wildlife Refuge System. \nPresenter \n\nKristen Gilbert\, works in Division of Visitor Services and Communications for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Her career interests are improving the public’s user experience with America’s fish\, wildlife\, and habitats a.k.a. the National Wildlife Refuge System.  During her over two decade visitor services career that spans Utah\, Colorado\, Wyoming\, Alaska and headquarters\, she has managed visitors centers\, volunteers and collaborated with Friends groups in addition to bring innovative thinking and processes to the National Wildlife Refuge System as a whole.\n\nSign Up Now!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/increasing-awareness-support-of-the-refuge-system-update-on-fwss-branding-work/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-08-082848.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T140000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250419T134557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250419T134557Z
UID:10000018-1746018000-1746021600@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Making Your Voice Heard: How to Write an Impactful Letter to the Editor or Op-Ed
DESCRIPTION:The opinion section of your local newspaper is one of the most influential spaces in your community. In these precarious times for refuges and conservation\, if you have considered writing a letter to the editor\, an op-ed or maybe even a blog post but didn’t know where to begin\, this webinar will give you a start. \nPresenters \n\nMatthew Emmer\, President\, Friends of the Savannah Coastal Wildlife Refuges. Board Member\, Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates.\nBill O’Brian writer-editor with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/National Wildlife Refuge System from 2010 to 2023. Before that: journalist for three decades\, including 23 years at the Washington Post\, where for a time he edited letters to the editor and local op-eds.\n\nSign Up!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/making-your-voice-heard-how-to-write-an-impactful-letter-to-the-editor-or-op-ed/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Screenshot-2025-04-19-093938.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250308T005522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250312T191404Z
UID:10000013-1741960800-1741964400@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Capitol Conversations: Swift Changes Happening To The Refuge System— What Does It Mean?
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 122nd birthday of the National Wildlife Refuge System for a special webinar breaking down what’s happening in Washington\, D.C. and what it means for the Refuge System. Desirée Sorenson-Groves\, President & CEO of the National Wildlife Refuge Association will discuss how recent and impending decisions by the new administration and Congress are impacting national wildlife refuges. \nSign Up at https://act.refugeassociation.org/a/webinar-capitol-conversations-spring-2025-gs \nPresenter \n\nDesirée Sorenson-Groves re-joined the Refuge Association in October 2024 as the President and CEO. Her career has been focused on protecting and enhancing the National Wildlife Refuge System\, first as a grassroots organizer for the National Audubon Society\, then as the Vice President of Government Affairs for the Refuge Association. After 14 years at NWRA\, Sorenson-Groves became the Director of the Arctic Refuge Defense Campaign where she managed an Indigenous-led\, multi-pronged effort to stop any development in the Arctic Refuge. She comes back to NWRA after leading Defenders of Wildlife’s public and private lands programs as their Vice President of Land & Habitat Conservation. She has a B.A. in Geography from George Washington University and resides in Fort Valley\, VA with her husband and two Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/capitol-conversations-swift-changes-happening-to-the-refuge-system-what-does-it-mean/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Screenshot-2025-03-07-184831.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250312T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250312T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250305T170932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T185129Z
UID:10000012-1741788000-1741791600@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Rising to the Challenge: Introducing CORFA's New Tool to Help Friends Lead
DESCRIPTION:The National Wildlife Refuge System needs us now more than ever. CORFA believes that a strong Refuge System starts with strong Friends. Join us for a webinar introducing a new tool created to streamline collaboration\, connections\, and resource sharing in the Friends community. \nFor years\, Friends Groups have played an indispensable role in filling the gap between what refuges and hatcheries need\, and what they receive from the federal government. Whether through fundraising\, volunteering\, or event planning\, Friends have become a vital conduit connecting refuges and hatcheries with their local communities. Yet the gap between what these lands need and what they receive is widening\, and the need for and pressure on Friends has never been higher. Friends Groups are uniquely positioned to rise to the challenge – and CORFA has been hard at work to build a new tool that provides a platform for Friends around the country to organize and ensure refuges and hatcheries thrive. \nIn this session\, we’ll explore how the platform can benefit your group\, improve collaboration among Friends around the country\, and empower your efforts to support your local refuges and hatcheries. Whether you’re looking to increase volunteer participation\, simplify event planning\, or connect with other groups\, this tool is designed with your needs in mind. \nSign Up!\nPresenter \n\nDustin Braden is a board member of the Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates and a nonprofit consultant specializing in technology\, data visualization\, grant writing\, and web development. He also serves as an instructor of Environment and Sustainability at Ohio Wesleyan University. With an M.S. in Geography and Spatial Sciences from the University of Delaware\, Dustin brings a diverse background in science and technology\, communication\, and conservation.
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/rising-to-the-challenge-introducing-corfas-new-tool-to-help-friends-lead/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Screenshot-2025-03-05-114813.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20250205T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20250205T190000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250106T134447Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250106T140819Z
UID:10000006-1738776600-1738782000@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Restoring New Mexico Ecosystems for bird\, insects\, & people
DESCRIPTION:Friends of Bosque del Apache NWR invite you to this webinar. \nRestoring ecosystems often requires control of invasive species and weeds to allow desired native plants to establish. Herbicide is an effective tool\, but can also cause unintended harm to ecosystems. Staff managing habitats like Bosque del Apache are now implementing pesticide-free techniques to control invasive weeds and preserve the health of soils\, native plants\, insects\, and birds. Join us as our panel\, featuring experts from American Bird Conservancy\, Xerces Society\, Institute for Applied Ecology and Friends of Bosque del Apache\, explores alternative ways of restoring habitats for the benefit of pollinators and birds\, and learn practical tips and solutions you can implement at home. \nQuarterly OASIS Zoom calls are now open to the public\, so please invite your friends and family to come learn about our beautiful Bosque del Apache NWR and theOASIS\, a sustaining community of hope! This is the perfect time to join as a monthly donor by giving a monthly gift in any amount that feels right for you – you’re in control of when to start\, stop and make changes to your level of monthly giving! \nRegister Now!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/restoring-new-mexico-ecosystems-for-bird-insects-people/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-06-083118.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250108T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250108T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20250106T132855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250106T132855Z
UID:10000005-1736343000-1736348400@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Developing Relationships & Connecting Refuges & Friends with Native Nations
DESCRIPTION:Friends organizations and refuges are eager to build meaningful relationships with local Native Nations and other Indigenous groups. This webinar will offer practical guidance\, including key do’s and don’ts\, for fostering these connections. Our four panelists will share their experiences and insights on building relationships and creating connections between Refuges\, Friends organizations\, and Native Nations. Please join us and contribute to this conversation. \nPresenters \n\nAlan Kelley\, Board member of the Friends of Loess Bluffs NWR. Deputy Tribal Historic Preservation Officer\, Iowa Tribe of KS & NE\n Amy Lankford-Coffman National Tribal Co-Stewardship Coordinator\, National Wildlife Refuge System Headquarters U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service \n Annie Sorrell\, Park Ranger\, Visitor Services\, National Elk Refuge National Wildlife Refuge System U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service \n Taylor Lipscomb\, PhD National Hatchery Operations Coordinator National Tribal Co-Stewardship Liaison\, Headquarters FAC US Fish and Wildlife Service\n\nCo-Facilitators  \n\nNatalie Gardetto\, Connected Communities Coordinator\, National Wildlife Refuge System Midwest Region U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\n Willem Stoeller\, Member of CORFA and the Friends of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge\n\nSign Up!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/developing-relationships-connecting-refuges-friends-with-native-nations/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-06-081849.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241218T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241218T170000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20241205T134645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241205T134645Z
UID:10000004-1734530400-1734541200@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:150 Years of Conservation: Highlights From USFWS Archives & DC Booth
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a fascinating journey through 150 years of fish and wildlife conservation history\, as we explore rare artifacts and archival treasures from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This special webinar features live presentations from two of USFWS’s premier historical collections: the DC Booth Historic Fish Hatchery and the National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) archives. Discover the stories behind these artifacts and learn how they illustrate the evolution of conservation in America.\n\nPresenters\n\n\nMark Madison\, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Historian\n\n\nApril Gregory\, Curator\, DC Booth Historic Fish Hatchery\n\n\nSign Up!
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/150-years-of-conservation-highlights-from-usfws-archives-dc-booth/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-05-082229.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T100653
CREATED:20241110T010609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241110T111443Z
UID:10000002-1731938400-1731942000@coalitionofrefugefriends.com
SUMMARY:Capitol Conversations: Updates Budget Insights for the Refuge System
DESCRIPTION:Webinar: Monday\, November 18th\, 2 – 3 pm ET \nJoin us for an exclusive webinar featuring Desirée Sorenson-Groves\, President and CEO of the National Wildlife Refuge Association\, as she provides an update on the latest legislative issues impacting the National Wildlife Refuge System. Desirée will cover critical topics\, including the fiscal year 2025 budget\, supplemental funding for natural disaster recovery\, and other legislative priorities that may influence the Refuge System. She will also share insights on potential changes under a new Administration and what they could mean for the future of our national wildlife refuges. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from one of the leading voices in wildlife conservation policy and learn about the latest developments affecting national wildlife refuges. \nPresenter \n\nDesirée Sorenson-Groves re-joined the Refuge Association in October 2024 as the President and CEO. Her career has been focused on protecting and enhancing the National Wildlife Refuge System\, first as a grassroots organizer for the National Audubon Society\, then as the Vice President of Government Affairs for the Refuge Association. After 14 years at NWRA\, Sorenson-Groves became the Director of the Arctic Refuge Defense Campaign where she managed an Indigenous-led\, multi prong effort to stop any development in the Arctic Refuge. She comes back to NWRA after leading Defenders of Wildlife’s public and private lands programs as their Vice President of Land & Habitat Conservation. She has a B.A. in Geography from George Washington University and resides in Fort Valley\, VA with her husband and two Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.\n\nSign Up! \n 
URL:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/event/capitol-conversations-updates-budget-insights-for-the-refuge-system/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://coalitionofrefugefriends.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Screenshot-2024-11-09-195318.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA)":MAILTO:coalitionrefugefriends@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR