For Immediate Release , 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ???, 2017

CONTACT: team captain Tel.:------(Email); ------

MASS AUDUBON’S ANNUAL BIRD-A-THON FUNDRAISER SET FOR MAY 12-13 Event Challenges Participants to “Focus on Nature” and Support Wildlife Sanctuaries and Conservation Programs

LINCOLN, MA— More than 800 nature enthusiasts across the state are expected to take part in Mass Audubon’s annual Bird-a-thon fundraiser, taking place Friday and Saturday, May 12-13. During the main event, members of over 20 teams will vie to spot (and hear) the most bird species in a 24-hour period.

For more than 30 years, Bird-a-thon has become Mass Audubon’s largest annual fundraiser and a popular celebration of nature for its members, supporters, and wildlife sanctuary visitors. The 2016 event raised $215,000 for Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries and programs statewide, with (team/sanctuary) garnering ($) for its work through the event.

(team/sanctuary) welcomes birders of all experience levels (including beginners) to join its official birding team, but you don’t need to bird to be a part of Bird-a-thon! Bird-a-thon Boosters can bird non-competitively, do a nature-based activity of their own design, or simply support the effort from home. Birders and Bird-a-thon Boosters raise money for their chosen Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary or program in honor of their participation.

“This fun event is appropriate for nature lovers of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds,” said (team captain or designee) “helping participants to connect with nature while also raising crucial funds for Mass Audubon’s initiatives and wildlife sanctuaries.”

Since 1983, thousands of dedicated supporters and team members have raised more than $2 million to support the respected conservation organization’s sanctuaries and programs across the Commonwealth. To learn more about Bird-a-thon, including how to participate or donate, please visit massaudubon.org/birdathon

### Mass Audubon protects 36,500 acres of land throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. As Massachusetts’ largest nature conservation nonprofit, we welcome more than a half million visitors a year to our wildlife sanctuaries and 20 nature centers. From inspiring hilltop views to breathtaking coastal landscapes, serene woods, and working farms, we believe in protecting our state’s natural treasures for wildlife and for all people–a vision shared in 1896 by our founders, two extraordinary Boston women. Today, Mass Audubon is a nationally recognized environmental education leader, offering thousands of camp, school, and adult programs that get over 225,000 kids and adults outdoors every year. With more than 125,000 members and supporters, we advocate on Beacon Hill and beyond, and conduct conservation research to preserve the natural heritage of our beautiful state for today’s and future generations. We welcome you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and get involved. Learn how at massaudubon.org.