20 Ways Your Support Helps Our Parks

NPLSF–and you–are more important than ever

For twenty years, NPLSF has operated at a unique intersection.  “We are a philanthropic partner to all five national park units on the shores of Lake Superior, and in that role, we are asked to do something genuinely difficult: perform triage on today’s most urgent needs while simultaneously building the infrastructure, relationships and raising money that will sustain these places for generations,” says NPLSF Executive Director Tom Irvine. 

At a time when federal budgets are tightening and national park staffing gaps are widening, NPLSF’s work is more important than ever. Our parks are facing challenging realities daily and partners are looking to NPLSF as a trusted, nimble ally who can fill crucial gaps and move when others cannot.

As NPLSF celebrates its 20th Anniversary in 2026, we want to share the many programs and supplies we provide to our five parks. 

When you make a donation to NPLSF, here are twenty examples of the work you support:

1. Agaaming Aki education program for Native youth

2. Artist in Residence Programs in our parks

3. Battery powered trail maintenance equipment

4. Citizen science initiatives

5. Cultural resource interpretation

6. Habitat restoration

7. Electric utility vehicles 

8. Energy efficient appliances that conserve resources

9. Historic preservation work

10. Junior Ranger programs

11. Lake Superior Podcast

12. Lake Wolves underwater photography program 

13. Moose research supplies

14. Interpretive park signage

15. Rendezvous Days

16. Dark Sky events

17. Shelter for a historic canoe

18. Staff housing

19. Weatherizing park buildings for 4 season use

20. Lessons From the Wilderness, curriculum. 

Twenty years ago, NPLSF was founded so people who love Lake Superior’s national parks could make a difference. Today, that support is more important than ever.

About NPLSF

The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF) exists to provide financial support for projects and programs that preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the five Lake Superior national parks: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Funded through grants and private donations, NPLSF projects and programs ensure that these great parks and historic sites are maintained for the enjoyment of all current and future visitors.

To learn how you can support our work visit nplsf.org/donate.