Meet one of AWARE’s founding members, supporter, and donor: Cathy Jewett.
Cathy has lived in Whistler for nearly fifty years, is heavily involved in community organizations, and is currently a Councilor at the Resort Municipality of Whistler – among (many) other things!
What is your favourite place in Whistler?
Hard choice – but Beaver Pond always seems so tranquil.
What motivated you to contribute to AWARE?
I go back to the beginning of AWARE – right down to choosing the name! I want to see AWARE continue to thrive – what started off as a grassroots organization now has a continuing role to play as the effects of climate change become more obvious. Habitat protection, climate mitigation and adaptation, reducing waste and our footprint by adopting a circular economy – these are all things that AWARE works on and more!
What AWARE programs / work do you think community members need to know more about?
The advocacy that AWARE does at a municipal level and beyond is important – to nudge governments to take action on environmental issues.
What advice do you have to others who are considering a donation / volunteering?
I’m in my second season of participation in the Greenhouse program [GROW Whistler – Community Greenhouse and Gardens]. I am able to harvest my own greens all summer and into fall! This program was taken over by AWARE with very little funding. I live in a condo with no access to my own dirt. The Greenhouses also provide community connection. I hope that people will consider supporting AWARE in the many programs they have – Zero Waste Heroes, the school programs, Repair Café or helping the toads find their way – just a few of the many ways AWARE impacts our community. Act locally, think globally!
Support AWARE’s work: Donate Today or Sign Up to Volunteer
AWARE’s work takes place on the shared, unceded territory of the Líḻwat7ul and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nations. We respect and commit to deep reflection and support of the history, culture, stewardship and voice of these first peoples.
