Founded in 1976, the American Hiking Society [AHS] works to protect miles and miles of foot trails all over the country. Representing more than 240 organizations and thousands of members, AHS promotes "outdoor ethics" to help ensure trails  -- and the surrounding natural beauty that make them so special in the first place  -- are taken care of properly.

Working with Congress, the National Park Service, USDA Forest Service and other federal agencies, the AHS aims to shape legislation that affects hiking, addressing issues such as funding and preservation of natural areas and the overall hiking experience. It also maintains the National Trails Fund, the only national private grants program that supports smaller local organizations that maintain hiking trails in their communities.

Girlawhirl loves that helping out the AHS not only supports the opportunity for recreation, but also the environment, because without protecting the gorgeous natural landscapes used for hiking  -- well, there would be no need for hiking trails at all. In 2007, AHS received a four-star rating from CharityNavigator.com, so Girlawhirl knows she can trust the organization.

From the footpaths in the woods behind a Super Pal's home, to the country's biggest National Parks, Girlawhirl can hike easier knowing she helped the American Hiking Society preserve the experience and environment for her and her peers today, and for years to come.

Click here for more information about the American Hiking Society

related articles:

Mar 03, 2008:

girlawhirl checks out the pueblo artifacts at bandelier national monument. read full entry

Jan 09, 2008:

charity navigator makes comparing charities easy. read full entry