Dear Friend,
Recently, I represented Friends of the Blue Hills (FBH) at a neighborhood condominium association meeting in Dorchester. It was a special invite for me — this was a community I once called home. The condos are right on the edge of the Blue Hills Reservation. And, it’s where I first truly connected to the Blue Hills, on daily walks with my energetic dog, a Vizsla named Monarch.
That evening, I shared the story of the Blue Hills with the residents — its rich history, its ecological importance, and the many ways people can experience and care for this extraordinary landscape. We talked about the history of FBH, its role in protecting and enhancing the park, and how community support makes that work possible.
What stayed with me most wasn’t the presentation that night. It was a moment that followed.
A former neighbor of mine, Jeanette, now 91 years old, raised her hand to speak. She shared that she has spent most of her life living in the shadow of the Blue Hills — driving past it, watching the seasons change across its ridgelines, and appreciating its presence from afar.
And yet, she told us, aside from dropping off her daughter at Houghton’s Pond as a teenager, she had never really spent time in the park.
She spoke with awe and regret about how she had never fully realized what an incredible resource the park is, how much it offers, and how deeply it shapes quality of life around it. Even if you don’t use the park every day or, in her case, not at all in 91 years.
Jeanette told us she planned to join FBH that very night — and she did. She even chose to give monthly as a Champion, ensuring her support helps care for the park year-round.
You can join Jeanette today.
While she may not be setting out on Skyline Trail hikes, Jeanette wants to give back to a place that, in her words, has “quietly enriched her life for decades.”
For some, the Blue Hills is a place of adventure. For others, it’s a constant presence, seen from a window, passed on a daily commute, or simply assumed to be there when we need it.
No matter how you experience the Blue Hills, your support ensures it remains protected, accessible, and vibrant for generations to come.
As we prepare for the park’s busiest season, your support is more important than ever. Our goal is to raise $45,000 this spring to support trail care, habitat protection, and programs that connect people to the Blue Hills. Your gift fuels all the work needed to protect this remarkable landscape.
Every gift helps maintain trails and keep them safe and accessible for the more than 1 million people who visit each year.
Will you make a gift today?
With gratitude,
Jen Klein, PhD
Executive Director (and Jeanette’s former neighbor)
Friends of the Blue Hills
P.S. As Jeanette says, it’s never too late to give back. Join her with a gift today (monthly or one-time) and help ensure the Blue Hills Reservation continues to enrich lives for generations to come. Your support is more important than ever. We need to raise $45,000 this spring for the park — and gifts from supporters like you will make it possible.