In 2024, Methow Valley Citizens Council established the Red-Tailed Hawk Fund to honor the legacy of its founders, Maggie Coon and Vicky Welch.  The fund is dedicated to investing in the next generation of activists, ensuring that Maggie and Vicky’s spirit of advocacy continues to thrive.  

Once a year, a community member will be selected to be recognized for their work and will receive a $1,000 cash award recognizing their contribution toward cultivating youth leaders and advocates for the environment.    

MVCC is calling for nominations for this year’s Red-Tailed Hawk Award.  People can nominate themselves or someone else for the award.   

Award Recipient Criteria: 

• Resident of Okanogan County 
• Inspires, leads or educates community youth about conserving our land and water, preserving our forests, protecting wildlife, bolstering community resilience, advancing environmental justice and/or tackling climate change 
• Positioned to provide next generation leadership 
• Their advocacy embodies the MVCC mission and values 
  
  How to Nominate:

• Please describe in a letter or email how the nominee promotes and supports youth advocacy.   
  
  Categories can include: 

• Engaging youth in climate or environmental advocacy work, community engagement, political or legislative action including attending lobby days in Olympia during the legislative session or meeting with elected representatives 
• Providing training or professional development for young leaders 
• Other ways in which the nominee participates in advocacy or inspires young people to do so 
• Nominations should be sent by April 20, 2026 via email to mvcc@mvcitizens.org or by mail to MVCC, PO Box 774, Twisp, WA  98856.   Include contact information for the nominee including email and phone number.