Keely Wolfram on Why it Pays to Give

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Keely Wolfram is a long-time Nature Consortium supporter who is passionate about youth and the outdoors. She served as Nature Consortium’s board president from 2009 to 2012 and continues her support with monthly donations. In a recent interview, Keely shared her story of what inspires her to give.

Q. What initially drew you to become involved with Nature Consortium as a volunteer?

Keely Wolfram: As a team member with Seattle Works Team Works program, I came out one Saturday to pull ivy with Nature Consortium. Our time out in the woods, right in the middle of the city, was pretty awesome. When a flautist appeared out of the woods to serenade us, some of us giggled. It was very surreal – like Pan made an appearance! At the end of the work party I learned that Nature Consortium does these events every Saturday, so a few weeks later I came back to the woods. The ability to volunteer at will as an individual, the social environment (NC volunteers are the best!), and the amazing artists makes for a very unique experience.

Q. When did you realize that you wanted to become more involved beyond volunteering?

KW: I had received a generous bonus at work, and, not being religious and tithing money, I thought I should donate a portion. In the past I’d donated to causes my parents were passionate about – for the holidays or in honor of loved ones – but this time was just for me. At that point I had volunteered a handful of times, really liked what Nature Consortium was doing, and decided to support them financially as well.

Q. Why do you feel its important to connect people, arts and nature?

KW: These things are intrinsically connected, but people have just forgotten that fact as we’ve moved more indoors, more onto devices, and more into ourselves. We need to be reminded. We need places in our cities to reconnect, and we need to make sure young people don’t lose it from the beginning. Art, nature, people – these are the original soul foods.

Q. Why do you choose to give to Nature Consortium each year?

KW: I don’t want to live in a city without Nature Consortium – I think all cities should have one! Everyone involved really does care so much about the work, about the kids, about the art, I want to make sure that doesn’t end. So I continue to give so that they can continue to do the amazing work they do.

Q. What is your favorite thing about Spring time in Seattle?

KW: The hope of sunnier, warmer days ahead! And getting the garden going.