You Can Make A Difference

This year my wife, Jennifer Reithel, and I have increased our annual, unrestricted giving to $2,500. This is a large gift for us and we decided to make it because we want to be part of the larger effort that will ensure the RMBL thrives for generations to come. This is an exciting time to make a difference!

The RMBL is making changes that will increase our ability to serve students and scientists. They include:

• Increasing investment in our physical plant, including renovating cabins, increasing protection of research sites from grazing, improving our water system, and upgrading internet access;
• Providing more financial support for students and scientists;
• Increasing access to contextual information that enriches research, such as spatial data and weather information;
• Shifting to a financial model in which private donations cover 50% of expenses;
• Maintaining the staff expertise needed to work within an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

In order to transform the Lab, we have developed a clear set of goals for 2010. They include:

• Adopting a strategic plan based upon the research, education, and facilities master plans;
• Building a stronger annual cycle for development, including accountability to donors, leading to unrestricted gifts of $300,000;
• Establishing metrics to track institutional impact;
• Continuing gains in our education program by stronger mentoring of mentors and increasing student demands for programs.

RMBL has a three year plan for developing a diversified funding base such that the Lab can be operated sustainably. In this economic environment we need broad-based support to hit our fundraising goals and continue our investment in the Lab.

The Lab exists because generations of students and scientists have made it happen. Please join in this tradition of supporting one of the few, independent field stations in the world. You can make a difference!