Fundraising
Empowering Conservation through Fundraising
At EDTU, our fundraising efforts are the cornerstone of our conservation and educational initiatives. Through the generous support of our donors and the success of our fundraising events, we can make a tangible impact on local and regional ecosystems. Our funds directly contribute to vital projects such as stream restoration, Trout in the Classroom programs, and community outreach efforts.
Each dollar raised is a step towards preserving our precious waterways for future generations. We also allocate resources towards research and advocacy, ensuring that the voice of conservation is heard in important environmental discussions. Our fundraising not
only supports these critical projects but also helps us engage with the community, spreading awareness and fostering a culture of stewardship.
By participating in our fundraising events or making a donation, you become a part of a passionate group committed to making a difference. Together, we work to ensure healthy, thriving aquatic ecosystems and to keep the spirit of angling alive for years to come. Join us in our mission to conserve, protect, and restore - your support is the current that keeps our efforts flowing.
To witness the significant impacts of our fundraising initiatives, explore the highlights below. Also, don't miss our annual holiday fundraiser, typically held in the first week of December. In 2023, this event was a resounding success, raising nearly $25,000. These funds play a crucial role in advancing our conservation and education projects throughout the year.
Equipment for the Conservation Resource Alliance
EDTU donated funds to the CRA, a non-profit that works to restore rivers and fish habitats, for the purchase of shocking equipment. The CRA is now able to conduct specialty research using the equipment donated by EDTU. Check out this video highlighting this research, created by EDTU member Mae Kelke.
Trout in the Classroom
EDTU is dedicated to nurturing the future of conservation through our active support of various Trout in the Classroom programs across the Chicagoland area. Our commitment extends beyond volunteer efforts; we also provide essential financial backing. Key to these programs is the equipment we supply to schools, including a comprehensive setup of a 50-gallon tank, chiller, filter, and other necessary accessories. The initial investment for each setup is between $1,500 to $2,000. Understanding the importance of these educational initiatives, our chapter pledges to fund at least one new setup annually, as demand grows.
Discover the full scope of our involvement and the impact of these programs by visiting our 'Trout in the Classroom' page."
Stream Restoration Efforts
Throughout the year, EDTU is deeply involved in a range of stream restoration projects, demonstrating our commitment to aquatic habitat conservation. For a comprehensive overview of these efforts, we invite you to visit our 'Conservation' page.
A highlight of our 2023 initiatives was during the April fishing trip, where EDTU had the honor of supporting the Trout Unlimited Driftless Area Restoration Effort (TUDARE). We proudly presented a generous donation of $10,000, earmarked for vital restoration projects on the West Fork of the Kickapoo River. This contribution underscores our dedication to preserving and enhancing our precious water ecosystems.
Annual Holiday Fundraiser
Each year in the first week of December EDTU holds its annual Holiday fundraiser. Check out our 2023 fundraiser below.
Tue, Dec 05Erie CaféDec 05, 2023, 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM CSTErie Café, 536 W Erie St, Chicago, IL 60654, USAJoin us on December 5th at Erie Café with special guest, Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited. The evening will include silent auctions and drawings to fundraise for the chapter and support our mission of preserving, restoring, and sustaining cold water fisheries in the Midwest.
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