The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) and the Northern New York Community Foundation are proud to announce the launch of the Birds Rise Above It All, a new endowment fund inspired by the life and legacy of Sherri Smith, a cherished local birding expert and devoted advocate for the natural world.
Through this partnership, a lasting legacy fund dedicated to bird conservation, education, and habitat restoration in the Thousand Islands and across the greater St. Lawrence River Valley has been established at the Community Foundation. The region is an ecologically significant area that lies within the heart of the Atlantic Flyway and the broader A2A (Algonquin to Adirondacks) wildlife corridor, a vital migratory route for countless bird species.
“Sherri’s love for birds was more than a passion — it was a perspective. She believed birds reminded us to look up, to rise above, and to reconnect with nature,” said Spencer Busler, TILT’s Associate Director. “This fund will carry that vision forward, protecting the places that birds — and people — need to thrive.”
Through this endowment, TILT will protect and enhance critical bird habitat across more than 15,000 acres of conserved land throughout the Thousand Islands region. The fund will also allow the Land Trust to expand bird education and citizen science initiatives for students, families, and visitors to the Thousand Islands. Additionally, it will support the long-term stewardship of natural areas that host nesting, migratory, and overwintering species.
The Northern New York Community Foundation will steward the fund, ensuring that Sherri’s legacy endures through impactful, transparent, and locally driven conservation work.
“We remain grateful to the Thousand Islands Land Trust for building upon our lasting partnership together and honoring Sherri in this meaningful way,” said Max DelSignore, Community Foundation vice president. “It is a wonderful example of perpetuating her affinity for local bird conservation and inspiring others to embrace and support some of the natural beauty prospering in our region.”
The Birds Rise Above It All Fund reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding bird populations and the habitats they depend on throughout the North Country. By protecting migratory pathways and supporting conservation education, the Fund helps ensure that future generations can continue to experience the ecological and cultural importance of birds in the region. Additional information about the Birds Rise Above It All endowment and its conservation purpose is available through the Thousand Islands Land Trust and the Northern New York Community Foundation. Visit tilandtrust.org/sherri-smith-birds-rise-above-it-all-fund/