BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Spur Foundation has launched a multi-year initiative to honor and promote the impact of generosity in the Wood River Valley.

“It’s In Our Nature” will highlight the indispensable role of local nonprofits in enhancing the community’s vitality, economy and daily life.

"Generosity permeates every aspect of life in the Wood River Valley," said Sally Gillespie, executive director of Spur Community Foundation, a Ketchum-based nonprofit inspiring effective philanthropy by helping people to give purposefully and teaching local nonprofits how to achieve maximum impact.

"From world-class arts and recreational opportunities to essential services for students, families and seniors, from protecting the environment to caring for animals, this community thrives because of nonprofits and the people who support them. One could easily take the role of nonprofits for granted. This campaign seeks to inspire even greater participation to ensure a bright future."

The campaign will include:

A newly launched website ItsInOurNatureWRV.org where residents and visitors can learn about nonprofits, discover volunteer opportunities and buy branded shirts, hats and bags to showcase their pride in being part of the generosity equation.

Education events, which will focus on important community topics and spotlight collaborative efforts to address them, beginning this fall.

The inaugural event, part of a Giving Thought Learning Series, will feature a screening of the film “Uncharitable” followed by a panel discussion on Sept. 10 at The Argyros. The film, which purports to expose the dark side of philanthropy and introduces a radical new way of giving, is co-presented by the Sun Valley Museum of Art

"We want everyone, whether long-time residents or newcomers, to recognize their pivotal role in preserving and enhancing our community's unique character through giving locally, whether that be through volunteering or making donations,” said Gillespie.

The nonprofit sector in the Wood River Valley supports more than 1,300 jobs—more than 10 percent of the workforce--and puts more than $100 million worth of expenditures into the local economy annually, according to The Spur Foundation.

Most nonprofits emerged from the pandemic intact and many responded to increased demand with creativity, determination and stamina, according to The Spur Foundation.

The It’s In Our Nature campaign is being made possible by generous support from The Mott Family Foundation.