My experience at Save the Dunes has been such a formative experience thus far, despite having only started with the organization a week ago. Before solidifying my decision to participate in the CAPS Fellows program, I knew that I wanted an internship that paired with my love for nature. I discovered Save the Dunes through the CAPS program process, and it perfectly aligned with that value. On top of that, it offered so much more. Save the Dunes mission targets three “buckets”: conservation, advocacy, and community engagement. These are things I am learning more and more about every day, and things that I can say that I now have a greater appreciation for.

Part of why my experience has been so formative and valuable is due to the people I have met, their dedication to Save the Dunes and its mission and work. Everyone at the organization has had a connection in some way or another with the wonders and beauties nature has to offer. They have that connection to it, and I believe they use that connection and passion to drive their work. It is inspiring to see. On top of this, they have all been welcoming and ready and willing to offer help to me as a newbie. Answering any questions I might have, providing me with background information on the organization and its work, and defining “new-fangled” terminology for me. I feel as though I have already learned so much, despite only just starting. This is exactly what I was hoping to gain from this summer experience, and I know I will discover much more throughout the rest of my time with the organization.

Save the Dunes mission focuses on serving to protect and advocate for the Indiana Dunes, Lake Michigan, and other natural areas, and the amazing thing…the organization has a longstanding history with this mission. Since 1952, when Save the Dunes was established, a rock was formed. This rock is one with purpose, one that is sturdy, reliable, and not easily eroded by whatever elements are blown its way.

Despite my present connection to such an organization, I have always had a love and appreciation for the dunes and what they have to offer. I grew up by Lake Michigan and spent many a beach day down by the shore. I remember racing down the dunes, building some questionable and probably not structurally sound sand castles with my sister, and long hikes with my family. I have so many memories from my childhood shaped by these things. These are things I hope that other families can continue to enjoy and appreciate going far into the future. This is possible through the worthy work of organizations like Save the Dunes.

Throughout the rest of the summer, I hope to continue to learn, grow, thrive, and make connections in the environment in which Save the Dunes fosters (which I am certain I will, especially since I get to work in the amazing historic house – Barker House). So far, I have learned that even the smallest of tasks have their own meaning and contribute to the larger picture. I am looking forward to continuing to help with whatever projects I can and assisting with the amazing work the organization is involved in.

Isabelle Byrt, Save the Dunes