Elise Ryan, Mayor of Chanhassen

How do you stay cozy in the wintertime?

I love wearing big sweaters, fluffy socks, and sitting with my husband by the fire in our basement.

What’s your go-to winter activity or pick-me-up?

I am invigorated going on morning runs. The crisp air and the quiet of the trails helps me clear my mind and provides me with positive energy for the day.

What is the most memorable gift you’ve ever received?

For my 40th birthday, my parents had my grandpa’s wedding ring resized for me to have/wear. His approach to life was inspiring by treating everyone he came in contact with with dignity and respect, and always making room for laughter. He was an energy-giver.

What warms your heart about Camp Fire’s work or most inspires you to support Camp Fire?

The generations of tradition—bringing a passion for the outdoors to our youth; inspiring kids to find their strengths and inner-spirit, and giving our youth the unique opportunity to embrace life and JUST HAVE FUN!

Tane Danger, the new Director of the Westminster Town Hall Forum and a former Camp Fire Minnesota staff member

How do you stay cozy in the wintertime?

The smartest thing my fiancé Eric and I did this year was insulating our garage so we can use it as a wood shop through the winter. We finished just before the cold really set in. Now it is so well sealed up, a relatively small heater gets it up to 75 degrees and keeps it there without much fuss. We spend much of our Saturdays and Sundays together out there, crafting holiday presents for our friends and family, or building furniture for our home. Our cat George comes out with us often too and sits atop the highest shelf, watching us work.

What’s your go-to winter activity or pick-me-up?

I love to cook and bake. Every Saturday morning I wake up early and bake a loaf of rosemary bread to have with eggs for breakfast. There are few things better on a cold winter evening than experimenting with a new, warm meal you then share with loved ones.

What is the most memorable gift you’ve ever received?

I lived in Korea for about a year and became friends with a family in my neighborhood. I helped the two high school boys with their English homework and their mother gave me music lessons. The night before I was set to fly back to the states, the mother presented me with a janggu (a traditional Korean drum). It was too large to take back on the plane, but she said not to worry. She arranged for it to be shipped and it arrived back in Minnesota before I did. It is a beautiful, precious item that reminds me of a family that was very special to me in a unique chapter of my life.

What warms your heart about Camp Fire’s work or most inspires you to support Camp Fire?

This past year has taught us all a lot about what’s truly important. One thing that’s helped a lot of us get through this challenging period is being able to connect with nature, whether through a camping trip, an afternoon fishing, or even just a walk around the block. It’s also put into focus how important human connection really is. Connecting kids to nature and giving them chances to build lifelong friendships is what Camp Fire is all about. This year has been hard and unfair to everyone, including kids. It is so important Camp Fire will be there next year and for years to come to restore some of the lost joy, connection, and memories kids will miss out on in 2020.

 

Nancy Lindahl, Philanthropist and Community Volunteer

How do you stay cozy in the wintertime?

My husband John and I used to do a lot of downhill skiing. Now we like to snowshoe on Lake Minnetonka. Nothing beats a campfire after time outside during a Minnesota winter. We build fires frequently (it must be a carryover from my days at camp!).

What’s your go-to winter activity or pick-me-up?

I am an avid reader and have really gotten back into cooking during this time of COVID-19. I am loving developing new menus and trying new foods. We also walk a lot along the Mississippi River and across the Stone Arch Bridge.

What is the most memorable gift you’ve ever received?

Letters and pictures from friends old and new are among my favorite treasures.

What warms your heart about Camp Fire’s work or most inspires you to support Camp Fire?

I want today’s young people (including my grandchildren) to value the beauty of our planet. I love that Camp Fire provides outdoor recreation, friendships, and a love for nature for all children regardless of their backgrounds and economic limitations. Tanadoona is a sacred place for me. I love the access for all people.

Sarah Milligan-Toffler, Executive Director, Children & Nature Network

How do you stay cozy in the wintertime?

By moving to GA! (ha – just kidding). Curling up with a big pot of Margaret Soother tea and a fuzzy blanket.

What’s your go-to winter activity or pick-me-up?

There’s nothing like a winter run! Last year was my coldest run ever. -20 actual air temperature. It was fun and I had Lake Harriet to myself.

What is the most memorable gift you’ve ever received?

When I was in college and majoring in women’s studies, my dad gave me a book of poetry by the feminist and social justice activist Muriel Rukeyser. He inscribed it with this note. “I’ve never read feminist poetry before, but in looking for something I thought you’d like, I found this one. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.”

What warms your heart about Camp Fire’s work or most inspires you to support Camp Fire? 

I’m inspired that Camp Fire provides opportunities for kids to have regular connection with nature, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that regular time in nature is critical for children’s healthy development. Thank you for being tireless advocates for children in Minnesota to have this opportunity.

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As we move into winter and the new year, we hope you’ll take time to reflect on some of these questions too—and get outside to make the most of the season! We have a new webinar series for youth and families, “Snow Problem! Get your family outdoors in the winter,” if you’re looking for some fresh ideas and to gather ‘round the virtual campfire with other Camp Fire families.

Kids need nature. You make it possible.

There’s still time to give in 2020! First-time and increased gifts will be matched by the Minnesota Camp Fire Foundation, up to $25,000 total.

DONATE NOW >>

Thank you to all of our generous donors who make our work possible! You warm our hearts here at Camp Fire.