Meet the A Rocha Ontario Team
Written by Madison Chafe (Communications and Administrative Coordinator)
February 2025
As our team is gearing up for the beginning of spring programming, we thought now would be a great time to give some insight into the people behind A Rochaβs work in Ontario. We are so happy to introduce/re-introduce the A Rocha Ontario team: Amanda Hildebrand (Ontario Programs Manager), Jeremy Petrusma (Conservation Coordinator), Amy Donais (Environmental Education Coordinator) and Madison Chafe (Communications and Administrative Coordinator).
Although technically βnewβ, our team is made up of people who have been engaged in A Rocha’s mission and programs for years. Each of us care deeply for the natural world and are passionate about continuing to facilitate programs, events, and projects to advance creation care in Ontario. 2024 was a wonderful year for A Rocha Ontario, so we are eager to continue to build upon this work with our new team. This year, just a few examples of our priorities and goals include: growing Project NEST to support bird species at risk, launching bird banding opportunities, and making ecological learning more accessible for people in the region. Work has already begun to pursue these priorities and goals. Reflecting on previous work and the year to come, our team is so grateful for the support weβve received from our community, including donors, program participants, seasonal staff, and volunteers. We are looking forward to continuing to journey alongside this awesome community to advance our mission in Ontario.
Without further ado, letβs meet the team!
Favourite outdoor activity?
Hiking, especially in cedar forests near my home.
Favourite place in Nature in Ontario?
One of my favourite nature places in Ontario is St Ignatius Jesuit Center’s Old Growth Forest trail in Guelph. I love it for the vision of the future that it represents (building a forest now to become old growth one day). And I love the beautifully crafted boardwalks along the trail.
In your work, what are you most looking forward to this year?
I am looking forward to continuing to connect with the many program participants who have become friends over the years and connecting with new folks through new environmental education and conservation programs.
Favourite outdoor activity?
This time of year, my favourite outdoor activity is skating at Cootes Paradise.
Favourite place in nature in Ontario?
One of my favourite places in Ontario is Lion’s Head Trail on the Bruce Peninsula.
In your work, what are you most looking forward to this year?
I am most looking forward to opportunities for bird banding including at Cedar Haven.
Favourite outdoor activity?
Hiking hilly, forest paths with some body of water nearby. I enjoy pausing often and taking in the wonderful forest air!
Favourite place in Nature in Ontario?
One of my favourite places to spend time and visit in Ontario is Pinery Provincial Park. Our family camps there every summer. I appreciate their nature education center, sandy dune campsites, and most of all, beach sunsets!
In your work, what are you most looking forward to this year?
I am most looking forward to hosting more field trips on site at Cedar Haven this year. It is so fun to get the opportunity to share that amazing place with both new and familiar faces.
Favourite outdoor activity?
Nature walks or “forest bathing”; I especially appreciate quiet moments to connect with nature in a reflective or contemplative way.
Favourite place in Nature in Ontario?
Algonquin Park; whether there for a day trip, a hike, or a camping trip, itβs a lovely place to explore throughout the seasons.
In your work, what are you most looking forward to this year?
I am most looking forward to getting to be a part of our programs and to share about my experience through stories of wonder and joy (with words and with photos).
Now that you know a little bit more about our team, we hope that weβll get the chance to know you too by connecting with you through our upcoming programs, projects, and events. Looking ahead, thereβs so much in store for the A Rocha Ontario team and community. If youβd like to learn more about our work, please click here or reach out to us at ontario@arocha.ca if you have any questions.
Support A Rocha's Work in Ontario
If you are interested in supporting A Rocha Ontarioβs events, programs and projects, please considerΒ makingΒ anΒ online donationΒ here.
