Celebrating 25 Years of Victories

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By: Lauren Goldberg, Executive Director

We are in the throes of fighting the good fight, arm and arm with people like you who rely on and love the mighty Columbia. Case in point: Our legal team has been busy responding to the onslaught of executive orders, including pushing back on the Trump administration’s efforts to fast-track fossil fuel developments.

No matter who is in power, we unite people to fight for clean water, salmon recovery, and our climate. And we make an impact. 

A generous group of families teamed up with a $25,000 challenge match to celebrate Columbia Riverkeeper’s 25th Anniversary. Every dollar you give will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $25,000. 

Your donation will power:

  • Lawsuits to stop pollution from flowing into the Columbia and its tributaries and prevent climate-polluting refineries and other infrastructure.
  • Advocacy in solidarity with Tribes who are fighting to protect sacred places from permanent destruction.
  • Community organizing to bring people together to advocate at the local and state levels. 
  • Free, bilingual environmental education to inspire the next generation of river advocates. 

Now, more than ever, your support will make a difference for everyone who relies on the Columbia. Supporters who donate $35 or more a year receive perks including invitations to inspiring events, free online programs, a mailed copy of our “Currents” magazine, and warm and fuzzy feelings knowing you’re supporting vital work for clean water and our climate.  

As a Columbia Riverkeeper supporter, you work in solidarity with Tribes and Indigenous people to protect irreplaceable and culturally significant sites. Board Member Elaine Harvey (above) gathers roots and shares the experience with documentary filmmakers and journalists to help protect sacred places and traditional food gathering practices. Credit: Matt Swain. 
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Staff Attorney Audrey Leonard (above) works in collaboration with community members to advocate for local and state policies that protect people’s health and reduce climate pollution—and uses the law to fight the fossil fuel industry’s aggressive plans to lock in oil and gas infrastructure. Credit: Paloma Ayala.

I’m proud that Columbia Riverkeeper combines community organizing, policy advocacy, litigation, communications, science, and education because the sum is greater than the parts. Strategic legal advocacy supports river communities by providing clear targets for organizing, leading to impactful victories by prevailing in court or convincing decisionmakers. At the same time, community organizing builds political pressure and lasting power in a way we cannot achieve with legal work alone. 

This year marks 25 years of incredible victories powered by work in solidarity with Tribes and river communities. Help us keep up the momentum at this critical time in history and for a river that sustains us.

Every dollar you give will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $25,000. Can you help us unlock this challenge match? Contact Development Manager Alex Smith, 503-432-8927, alex@columbiariverkeeper.org, if you have questions or need support in setting up a monthly donation or planned gift.

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As we mark Columbia Riverkeeper’s 25th anniversary, join us in celebrating the Columbia as a life-giving and sustaining force that connects people and supports vibrant cultures. Get out on the river, walk its shores, or watch it soak in the colors of a summer sunset. Credit: Ben Herndon.