As we approach the end of 2024, it is a privilege to look back on the incredible progress and milestones achieved by Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake (IPC). This year has been a transformative one, and I am filled with gratitude for everyone who has played a role in strengthening our mission to inspire faith communities to care for our shared watershed.

The year began with a powerful Faith & Waters Restoration Summit in February, setting the stage for collaboration and renewed energy. We welcomed talented new staff members, including John as our Outreach Assistant, Ebony as our Outreach Coordinator for the Lower Eastern Shore, and notably, our new Executive Director, Meenal Harankhedkar, who joined us in September. Meenal’s leadership has already begun to invigorate IPC’s vision for the future.

From launching our endowment to receiving a $1.8 million National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant, our capacity to support congregations has grown tremendously. We celebrated impactful events, such as the Baltimore Boat Tour and the Prince of Peace Ribbon Cutting—a culmination of a four-year stormwater retrofit project. On the ground, congregations like Ascension Lutheran Church and Blossom Hill Mennonite in Pennsylvania have implemented innovative restoration projects, converting lawns into vibrant meadows and bioswales. Additionally, the Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Gaithersburg dedicated their Piscataway Rain Garden, and the Garden Guardians program took root in Howard County, furthering environmental stewardship.

Our advocacy and educational outreach reached new heights this year with participation in Lancaster Water Week, hosting over 17 events in collaboration with partners, and piloting programs like the Trash Reduction Action Kit in Baltimore City. IPC also expanded its reach through the Climate Solutions for Congregations initiative and piloted the Trees for Sacred Places Program, with 25 congregations committed to planting trees. The Urban Trees Program and site assessments for 30 underserved congregations showcased IPC’s commitment to addressing environmental justice.

This year also saw significant community engagements, including the Third Annual Greater Baltimore Juneteenth Solstice Celebration and the Second Annual Chesapeake Champions Interfaith Breakfast, both of which built on the foundational work achieved throughout the year.

This year has also marked a personal milestone for me. After six years on the board and two as Chair, I am stepping down with immense gratitude for the privilege of serving IPC. I’m thrilled to introduce Mark Wright, whose experience with his green team at Christ Episcopal Church in Rockville, along with his passion and expertise will guide IPC into its next chapter. Mark shares a special Giving Tuesday message below, reminding us that the season of giving continues, and your support can make a lasting impact as we strive to meet our year-end fundraising goals.

Thank you for standing by IPC through transitions and transformations. Your unwavering commitment inspires us to keep growing, advocating, and healing the watershed together. Let’s keep the momentum going as we look ahead to 2025 with hope and purpose!