Trail marking at Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve (Photo by NCC)

Paul Archer’s challenge

At the end of 2018, Paul Archer, chair of the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC)'s regional board and a loyal NCC partner, took up a fundraising challenge. Its goal: to support NCC in our efforts to provide access to nature through the development of safe trails.

Using a customized online donation page, Paul raised more than $6,400 in just a few weeks, which he then matched. The result was $12,800 raised for the benefit of nature.

Thanks to this donation, nearly 48 kilometres of trails will be developed for hikers. This contribution supports our Landmark Campaign, which aims to connect more people to nature while conserving more natural environments more quickly and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.

Happy in nature

Paul Archer (Photo by Martin Beaulieu)

More than 40 individuals from Paul’s network took up the challenge with him. This noteworthy success is not surprising, given that, according to a recent survey*, nine in 10 Canadians say they are happier when they spend time in nature.

“I am proud to see how quickly so many people mobilized to contribute to the challenge," says Paul. "This action will enable us to make nature even more accessible to all, and I would like to thank all of the generous donors. Nature is an important part of our lives and we must encourage the work of organizations such as the Nature Conservancy of Canada, not only for our own well-being, but also for that of future generations.”

On behalf of nature lovers everywhere, thank you, Paul!

About Paul Archer

Paul holds a bachelor of commerce degree in finance and international business from McGill University and is a chartered financial analyst. Over the course of his career, Paul has helped large companies in Quebec develop financing structures, in the sectors of media and telecommunications, aeronautics, retail, energy and manufacturing, among others. Prior to joining the Nature Conservancy of Canada, he served on the board of the Canadian Club of Montreal for six years. Paul is currently managing director and head of Montreal Corporate Banking with TD Securities, a division of the TD Bank Financial Group. In this capacity, he is responsible for business development and credit structuring for large corporations in the Quebec market.

*Source: Nature and Me survey, released by NCC, in partnership with Ipsos Public Affairs, conducted from September 10 to 14, 2018, among 2,000 Canadians aged 18 and older.