BMO deepens commitment to equity and environmental sustainability with $1 million investment in Parks California
BMO has announced a groundbreaking $1 million donation to Parks California, the official statutory non-profit partner to California State Parks. This transformative grant will support the organization’s mission to provide career pathways for future environmental leaders, enable access to parks for traditionally underrepresented groups, and catalyze collaboration between Native American tribes and the park system.
On April 25, a contingent of local BMO employees joined Melissa Fifield, Head, BMO Climate Institute, for a Parks California-led evening tour of Angel Island State Park, the largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay. Angel Island has some of the best views of the surrounding Bay Area and it was against this stunning backdrop that she announced BMO’s $1 million donation to Parks California.
“We are proud to support the positive impact Parks California is driving within the park system state-wide. Natural spaces are critical to the health and well-being of our communities and provide valuable economic advancement for a new generation of park stewards. BMO’s contribution is an important demonstration of our commitment to building a sustainable future and inclusive society where everyone can enjoy and benefit from our natural treasures.”
– Melissa Fifield
Head, BMO Climate Institute
Since 2021, BMO has donated $300,000 to support initiatives that expand career opportunities within state parks and cultivate a new generation of environmental stewards. Through its support of the Career Pathways program, BMO has helped to diversify the workforce within park systems and empower underrepresented candidates to pursue meaningful careers in environmental conservation.
“We are excited to join forces with BMO in our shared mission to strengthen and preserve California’s state parks. This partnership represents a significant investment in the future of our parks, ensuring that they remain accessible and resilient for generations to come. BMO’s support will enable us to increase access to parks for underserved communities, support training for future leaders and stewards of California’s parks and public lands, and steward cultural connections by strengthening Parks California’s capacity to work with tribes on stewardship activities.”
– Kindley Walsh Lawlor
President and CEO at Parks California
Established in 2019, Parks California operates as a unique model of public, private, and non-profit partnership. As the official non-profit partner to California State Parks, it works tirelessly to ensure the thriving of state, regional, and local parks across the state. With a mission to strengthen parks and inspire all to experience these extraordinary places, Parks California currently manages over 30 projects funded through government, public-private partnership agreements, and private donations.
BMO’s recognition as one of the most sustainable companies in North America by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index underscores the alignment of its corporate values with Parks California’s mission. For more information about BMO’s commitment to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, visit Our Impact website.
