$10M Big Bear fundraiser
A $10 million fundraiser, 'Save Moon Camp,' led by Friends of Big Bear Valley, has raised $2.5 million to purchase land and prevent a housing project near the bald eagle nest of Jackie and Shadow, which threatens rare plants and wildlife. The campaign, the nonprofit’s largest effort, relies on small donations from global supporters and has engaged schools like Wildwood Elementary in Yucaipa, which contributed $373, with a July 31 deadline looming.
Friends of Big Bear Valley has raised over $2.5 million toward its $10 million 'Save Moon Camp' fundraiser, aiming to buy land near the bald eagle nest of Jackie and Shadow to block a planned housing development. The project, which includes 50 custom home lots and a marina with 55 boat slips, has drawn criticism for potentially harming rare plants and wildlife, including the eagles and their eaglets, Sandy and Luna. Most donations have come from small contributions worldwide, with schools like Wildwood Elementary in Yucaipa and a Connecticut school raising $373 and $970, respectively. The campaign, described as the nonprofit’s most ambitious effort, has also seen larger gifts, including a $77,000 anonymous donation and a $20,000 contribution with a handwritten letter. Friends of Big Bear Valley is actively seeking support from philanthropists and tribal councils. Media manager Jenny Voisard highlighted the personal impact of the fundraiser, noting donations from individuals’ paychecks or daily spending, as well as letters to officials. If the $10 million goal isn’t met by July 31, the nonprofit has a backup plan. The fundraiser’s success has been amplified by the popularity of the organization’s eagle livestream, which has become a classroom fixture. Voisard emphasized the importance of biodiversity and the role of younger generations in conservation efforts. The land purchase aims to place the area under permanent conservatorship, ensuring protection for the eagles and local ecosystems. Donations and updates can be tracked at SaveMoonCamp.org.
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