Elementary Students Make Unexpected Gift

Federation CEO Michael Butler (center) answered the call to visit students who researched and raised money for the Federation.

In early May, the Federation received an unexpected phone call. Students from Julia Green Elementary School in Nashville requested the presence of our CEO, Michael Butler, for a gift presentation.

When the kids call, we answer.

We were greeted by four young men from Ms. Pruett’s fourth grade elementary class. Carlton, Clay, Levi, and William had researched and conducted a fundraiser benefiting Tennessee Wildlife Federation for a class assignment.

Over the course of the assignment, the students learned about the Federation’s mission, programs, and policy efforts. And they used their opportunity to talk with Michael about what it was like to sit in the CEO’s chair, how we hope to grow and expand our programs, and who we partner with. The boys—big and small—also shared a few fish tales.

Before leaving, the students presented Michael with $183, the money they raised by planning and running a bake sale from Levi’s home!

The Federation’s youth engagement programs depend on our supporters and volunteers. Our afternoon at Julia Green Elementary School was the perfect reminder that while we’d love to engage all youth in hands on experiences in the great outdoors, sometimes the best way to reach these future conservationists is simply by taking a trip down the street.

Thank you, Julia Green Elementary students Carlton, Clay, Levi, and William!