In many ways, it seems as if Wild Salmon Center and the Sieglers were meant to cross paths.
“I’ve fished in many places where WSC works—Alaska, Oregon, Washington, Kamchatka,” Mitch Siegler says. “And there’s a certain connection when you’ve visited those places.”
But it was a book that brought the Sieglers into WSC’s orbit.
“I first heard about the organization in 2019 when I read Stronghold, the biography of WSC’s Guido Rahr by Tucker Malarkey,” Siegler says. “I found the story very powerful and decided to learn more.”
After digging more deeply, WSC’s model proved to be a strong fit for their philanthropic goals.
“A healthy environment and a well-functioning ecosystem are really important to us and to the future of our children,” Siegler says. “What I like about WSC is that they focus on a particular species, pursue just a few target initiatives, and have stitched together a compelling story about how salmon are a linchpin species supporting healthy rivers, forests, and natural ecosystems.”
“A healthy environment and a well-functioning ecosystem are really important to us and to the future of our children.”
Mitch Siegler
Over the years, Mitch and Elizabeth became more involved by acting on key campaigns, spending time on the river with WSC staff, and supporting our work with high-impact gifts through their Donor Advised Fund.
“By virtue of WSC being targeted and efficient, our donations were ultimately more meaningful than if they were made to a larger, less focused nonprofit,” Siegler says. “We felt our gifts were harder-working.”
In 2021, Mitch and Elizabeth decided to take the next step, by including WSC in their estate plans to help ensure that our conservation efforts are sustained into the future.
“The need for WSC’s work will continue for some time, and like the twists and turns of a river, there will be different challenges 10 to 20 years from now,” Siegler says. “Setting the stage for continuity and permanence through our bequest helps WSC think more strategically, and in longer-term fashion, to continue to thrive and fight the battles likely to present themselves in the future.”
“The need for WSC’s work will continue for some time, and like the twists and turns of a river, there will be different challenges 10 to 20 years from now. Setting the stage for continuity and permanence through our bequest helps WSC think more strategically.”
Mitch Siegler
To learn more about creating a legacy with WSC, please visit wildsalmoncenter.org/legacy.
