Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE)
Santa Fe, New Mexico / $10,000

The New Mexico Rio Grande is a pollinator hotspot with over 3,000 species documented along the river, including at-risk and endemic pollinators. It is a vital migration and breeding corridor for the monarch butterflies, but has been altered by agriculture, invasive species, and flood management. We propose an innovative approach that couples regional restoration and recovery with education – engaging schools with underutilized garden spaces near the river to expand steppingstone sites and nursery capacity. Schools and their students will benefit from a hands-on, place-based project that advances their knowledge of local ecology and builds conservation skills.

New Mexico Wild
Albuquerque, New Mexico /$15,000

New Mexico Wild works to defend New Mexico’s wilderness, wildlife, and water. We pride ourselves on being inclusive in our campaigns and building broad coalitions of diverse stakeholders and holding up local voices on shared conservation values. Our deep ties to communities are critical when building and demonstrating local support for protecting New Mexico’s lands, waters, and wildlife. Our funds support advocacy, education, and stewardship to protect critical wildlife habitat and cultural resources on public lands as well as on-the-ground staff to serve as goodwill ambassadors, engaging the public through volunteer service projects.

La Vida Felicidad
Los Lunas, New Mexico / $2,000

La Vida Felicidad is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children, families, adults, and seniors in Valencia County. Our mission is to provide advocacy and individualized services in partnership with the community, fostering connections, breaking down barriers, and expanding opportunities for a brighter, more resilient future. La Vida’s Annual Family Expo addresses these needs by creating a central, accessible event where families can find the support they need. The goal is to break down barriers and reduce isolation, offering a supportive space to build connections and feel empowered to seek help.

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
Albuquerque, New Mexico / $10,000

In 2024, the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History celebrated 55 years of service to the community, offering a safe, inclusive, and accessible venue for families to learn in an informal environment. Children spend less than 20% of their waking hours in schools. Out-of-School programs, like what the Museum has, offer both additional time and the opportunity to diversify the ways that students experience STEAM learning. Learning experiences that take place outside the classroom in an informal space often garner more interest and enjoyment, leading to higher motivation and improved understanding.

Oo-Oo-Nah Art & Cultural Center
Taos, New Mexico /$10,000

Our Elders are passing away, and thus their stories in their language are passing with them. Since Tiwa is oral, not written, they will lose it if efforts are not made to preserve and sustain the language, culture, history, and arts of future generations. Our programs are geared to teach Tiwa. Children are encouraged to express themselves in different media and expand the ideas of how far they can go and be successful in those endeavors. We want the children to become fluent speakers, embrace their heritage, and become proud, productive members of their community.

The Longears Safehouse (TLS)
Estancia, New Mexico / $6,500

The animals we take in at our facility often come from previous owners or their relatives when the owners are no longer capable of caring for their animals. Hundreds of donkeys and mules across New Mexico are currently neglected or abused, suffering malnutrition, overgrown hooves, mishandling and social isolation. We strive to intercept donkeys and mules at risk even before they reach the slaughter pipeline at sale barns and auctions. TLS is experienced in overseeing contracted veterinarians, professional farriers, and skilled ranch hands, and provides educational and consulting services.