On behalf of The Avian Conservation Center Board of Directors, welcome to the inaugural issue of our quarterly newsletter, Taking Flight.  I am proud to be the Center’s Board Chair and carry forward a legacy that began with my father, Peter McKellar III, more than 17 years ago. He was a dedicated volunteer and passionate advocate for our work. As am I. Each day, and based on experience gained over 35 years, The Center plays a vital and consequential role across the disciplines of science, education and conservation.

Our mission is “to identify and address vital environmental issues by providing medical care to injured birds of prey and shorebirds; and through educational, research, and conservation initiatives.”  This newsletter will be a celebration of and a tribute to our work and to the committed individuals who make it all possible. My message today is simple: Thank you!

Thank you to our dedicated and highly skilled staff (meet them here). Thank you to the members of our Board of Directors. To the dedicated individuals who are our Volunteer Staff. And, to every person who chooses to support our work, whether it’s a $25 contribution during our Summer Appeal, attending one of our events, or a generous major gift,  YOU make this work possible. Thank you…… you are the difference makers and those who truly  allow the birds that we serve to Take Flight!