Mission & Core Values

WRV’s mission and core values guide everything we do — from volunteer stewardship projects to building inclusive communities.

MISSION

Building diverse communities that care for the land

Our mission is simple but powerful: to build diverse communities that care for the land. We envision a world in which all people are empowered stewards of the land.

Core Values

Community

We believe in bringing people together to work toward a shared purpose and celebrating the accomplishments we achieve collectively. Strong relationships form the foundation of our work, creating a supportive community that cares for both the land and one another.

Action

We believe in taking meaningful, hands-on action to restore the land. Through dedicated effort, skill-building, and collaboration, we create lasting improvements to Colorado’s ecosystems while empowering people to make a tangible difference.

Healing

We believe that in coming together to heal the land, we also heal ourselves. Restoration fosters connection, resilience, and a renewed sense of belonging—strengthening both the natural world and the people who care for it.

Inclusion

We believe in cultivating a welcoming environment for people of all identities to engage in restoring and connecting to the land. Everyone’s perspective strengthens our community, and we strive to ensure all feel valued, respected, and supported in this work.

How We Do It

Leadership Development

We train volunteers to take leadership roles in WRV — cultivating the next generation of land stewards.

Collaboration

WRV develops and nurtures strong relationships with land-management agencies, community organizations, landowners, and others to accomplish our goals.

Technical Knowledge

We continually expand our understanding of science-based ecological restoration techniques, ensuring effective and sustainable work.

Logistics Management

We handle all aspects of project planning — tools, permits, volunteer coordination, safety — ensuring even complex projects run smoothly.

Our History & Achievements

1999 — First project: On March 20, 1999, about 20 volunteers planted willows at Pella Crossing Open Space near Hygiene — WRV’s first restoration project.

2002 — WRV becomes a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

2003 — First leadership training program for Crew Leaders, later expanded to training for cooks, project leaders, technical advisors, tool managers, wilderness first aid, trail skills, advanced restoration, etc.

2010 — WRV opened a second office (Fort Collins) and initiated the Youth Program.

2017 — Reached its 1,000th project; engaged over 40,000 volunteers, contributing nearly 500,000 volunteer hours valued over $10 million.

2018 — New Executive Director selected after over 19 years of founding leadership.

2019 — WRV celebrates 20 years of “Healing the Land and Building Community.”

2024 — WRV celebrates 25th Anniversary; new Executive Director appointed.

Join Us in Caring for the Land

See Volunteer Opportunities