West Creek Conservancy

7381 Camelot Drive, Parma 44134 | 216-749-3720 | westcreek.org

The observation deck at Morgana Bluffs Preserve, in the heart of Slavic Village.

WHAT WE DO: Since its founding, West Creek has been a model of citizen action and land conservation, maximizing benefits and leveraging projects to the fullest extent possible. Initially embracing the much-needed role of an urban land trust serving Greater Cleveland, West Creek ultimately evolved into a diverse nonprofit conservation organization that serves the region.

West Creek has protected thousands of acres in dozens of communities across the region, while placing importance on water quality improvement, stormwater abatement, wetland and riparian corridor restoration, environmental education and outreach, historic preservation and natural resource stewardship.

West Creek envisions healthier and more vibrant communities through the conservation and restoration of our natural areas and streams, as well as the creation of greenways and recreational trails, thereby linking neighborhoods and uniting people throughout the region.

The mission of West Creek is to enrich the lives of all people in Northeast Ohio by conserving natural habitats, restoring the ecological value of our region’s lands and waters, and expanding opportunities to connect people from all cultures to experience nature and discover our great outdoors.

COVID RESPONSE: The last few years have brought to light the importance of parks, trails and open spaces. As our region’s trails, parks and public spaces were quickly overwhelmed, it again highlighted the importance of the work of West Creek, as the organization focused on expanding and restoring greenspace, in order to create equitable connections to the natural world. West Creek is proud to play a role in helping to provide such critical amenities for our region, and adjusted to the constantly changing conditions and challenges. Yet, it also remained mission- and partner- oriented, while ensuring safe operations for the staff, board and dedicated volunteers too.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: West Creek’s signature conservation gala and annual fundraiser, Up! A Creek brings supporters together for an unforgettable evening. Past venues include West Creek Reservation, Windows on the River and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The event features dinner, dancing, live music, silent and live auctions, raffles, an infamous wine toss and access to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Please join us on August 12, 2023, at Windows on the River. Contact events@westcreek.org to learn more!

HOW TO HELP:

Giving: Your gift will make an immediate impact, as well as a legacy of conservation in our community. For every $1 donated, 96¢ is provided directly toward protecting and restoring our essential land and water resources. You can support West Creek through direct financial gifts, planned giving, appreciated stock donations, real estate donation, event sponsorships, project support, in-kind donations and corporate matching programs. To pledge your support today, please visit westcreek.org/support-us.

Volunteering: Come out and join us! There are many opportunities throughout the year to become involved and help fulfill West Creek’s mission. Individual, corporate and board opportunities are available. For more information, contact kara@westcreek.org.

OVERVIEW

EMPLOYEES: 5 2021 REVENUE: $8,563,674 YEAR ESTABLISHED: 1997

SOURCES OF REVENUE:

Government grants: 55% Program services: 28% Contributions/gifts: 14% Other: 3%

LEADERSHIP

TOP EXECUTIVES & BOARD MEMBERS

Derek Schafer,

executive director

Eric Sluss,

board chair (Net at Work)

Dawn Petkov, director of finance

Joe Leslie, director of real estate

David Saja, senior watershed project manager Kara Benninghofen, stewardship and outreach coordinator

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rob Brill, vice chair (Cox Communications) Jen DiGeronimo, recording secretary (DiGeronimo Companies) Shimshon Balanson, treasurer (formerly of Jones Day) A full listing of board members can be found at: westcreek.org/staff-and-board.