Trees, Water & People: Helping Communities Preserve Their Natural Resources

Headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado, Trees, Water & People (TWP) is a non-profit organization that helps communities protect and manage their natural resources. Founded in 1998 by Stuart Conway and Richard Fox, TWP is composed of a group of conservationists dedicated to equipping people with the skills and knowledge they need to conserve the natural resources on which their long-term well-being depends. TWP believes that natural resources are best protected when locals are actively involved and that preserving local ecosystems results in the ongoing social, economic, and environmental health of communities everywhere.

Trees, Water & People works with local NGOs and community leaders, as well as designs and implements community-led projects. The non-profit's community-based development model stems from the philosophy that the best way to help those in need is by inspiring them to play an active role in caring for their natural resources.

Because TWP engages with local residents and respects their culture, its projects have been well-received in several Latin American communities and on Native American Reservations. TWP has won the Energy Globe Award and the Ashden Award for Sustainable Energy, among other accolades.