Why We Give
We’d like to extend a special ‘thank you’ to the Barnhardt family, who have been passionate supporters of SAHC for years and who graciously shared this message about why they support local land and water conservation.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. Luke 12:48
We have tried to raise our children with this bible verse in mind. God has gifted all of us with a beautiful world, including our treasured Appalachian Highlands. We raised our 3 children hoping to inspire a love of nature and the outdoors. Every summer we hiked trails in the Smokies and Blue Ridge Mountains, traveled to waterfalls for swimming and sliding, and camped along mountain rivers where we went tubing, biking, fishing, and rock hopping.
We also raised them to understand the importance of philanthropy, which is reflected in one of their favorite Christmas traditions. They are given an amount of money to donate to the organizations of their choosing. As they have gotten older (now 27, 25, and 20 years old), their gifts are more focused and thoughtful. We are proud of their passion for donating to organizations they know make an important impact in our community and in our world.
When our children choose which organizations to give to every year, Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) is always on the list. SAHC is a leader in protecting the beautiful world we’ve been gifted with and educating us on how important it is for us to care for it now for future generations. Without organizations like SAHC, all of the place
s where we had so much fun hiking, swimming, and camping while our children were growing up would gradually disappear. We are so happy our entire family believes in and supports an organization that is so committed to conservation. After all, the beauty around us is a gift to appreciate and protect. That is the expectation!”
Tom and Kim Barnhardt
Jennifer, Emily and Lucas
