This year, the nonprofit Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) marks its 100th anniversary, and to celebrate the organization is running the largest fundraising campaign in its history. The Centennial Campaign aims to raise $50 million to continue the ATC’s work in protecting the environmental, accessible, and historical aspects of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) for future generations to enjoy.
“The 100th anniversary represents more than just a milestone in our history; it embodies our unwavering commitment to protecting and preserving the Appalachian Trail,” said Sandra Marra, President and CEO of the ATC. “The Centennial Campaign is a bold investment in our shared future — ensuring that the Trail continues to connect people with nature and one another, for the next hundred years and beyond.”
According to the ATC, more than $26 million has been raised since 2024. The organization plans to put the funds towards multiple high-impact initiatives that focus on the protection of the A.T., including grant programs for conservation orgs, sustainable overnight sites, national resource stewardship, community engagement, and development programs.
“This campaign is about much more than fundraising; it’s about vision,” said campaign co-chair Roger Klein. “We’re standing at the intersection of legacy and opportunity. With every dollar invested, we are protecting not just land, but the values of sustainability and public access that define the Appalachian Trail.”
Cover photo: Courtesy of Getty Images
