There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story.”

Linda Hogan, Chickasaw poet, BEI Emeritus Fellow, novelist, essayist, and environmentalist

Our Mission

At Friends of the Forest, we're more than just an organization; we're a sanctuary for the soul. Our goal is two-pronged and transcends simple actions: it's about healing our planet and nourishing our spirits. With every leaf, twig, and wave, we're building a bridge to connect women back to the essence of the wild.

In a world that moves at the speed of screens, we're the gentle pause in the chorus of life's hustle, the soft whisper of the wind inviting you to return to Mother Earth's nurturing bosom. Our mission resonates through each of our offerings—from tranquil walks in emerald woods to the wise tales told by the equines we partner with. At Friends of the Forest, we craft a space where creativity flows as freely as the rivers and personal growth is as certain as the tides.

Through mindfulness and the celebration of nature's cycles, we guide women to a place where they truly belong—one of peace, connection, and collective well-being. We understand that in healing our bond with nature, we rediscover the path to heal ourselves.

As a benevolent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are fueled by kindred spirits who believe in our vision. Your contributions aren't just gifts; they're seeds, planting a future where humanity and nature exist in a beautiful symbiosis. With every donation, you're empowering women and safeguarding our planet's majesty for those who come after us.

Step into a realm where stress gives way to serenity, and inspiration buds in every corner of the great outdoors. When you support Friends of the Forest, you're championing a cause that's vital for both the feminine spirit and the world at large. You're ensuring that every experience we offer transforms lives and instills a lifelong esteem for Earth's splendors.

We invite you to join us on this profound path of healing and harmony. Warmly extend your hand to Mother Nature, and together, we will craft a legacy of balance and reverence—a world where every woman finds solace and strength in the shade of the forest's canopy.

Kathleen Lowe
Founder & President
Friends of the Forest

Make a Donation

How We Use Your Donations

The Rebloom Initiative© is a Friends of the Forest initiative offering women who have completed their cancer treatment the opportunity to reclaim their lives, renew their bodies, and experience healing connections with other women through restorative nature-based wellness workshops and retreats.

This program is offered on a sliding scale, ensuring no one is turned away due to lack of funds. This commitment is made possible by the generosity of our donors. We are incredibly grateful for the support we receive from individuals who share our passion for helping women cancer survivors reclaim their lives. Your donations enable us to continue providing this vital program free or at an affordable cost for those in need.

We receive no state or federal funding for our work. We are entirely supported by individual donations.

Our Values

Celebrate Wildlife and Wild Places
Inspire People to Conservation Action
Be Transparent in Everything We Do

Our Awesome Leadership Team

“In the fall of 2021, I remember the moment I realized my purpose in life. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were ablaze with vibrant colors, and the air was filled with the scent of earth and pine. I stood at the edge of a forest, feeling an inexplicable connection to the wild spaces that surrounded me. It was then I realized I wanted to offer our community this different lens to look through and experience the more than human world. From there, Friends of the Forest took shape.

As a businesswoman, I know that you need a great leadership team to get things done. You need to surround yourself with a team of people that trust each other, communicate openly, are accountable, share common goals, respect each other, and do what is best for the organization. That’s what we have at the heart of this organization—a great leadership team comprised of a group of strong women with unique and complementary talents that are committed to our organization’s goals and priorities. We all know where we are headed, and we are confident that we will get there.”

Kathleen Lowe
Founder & President