Welcome, Aves Compartidas!

The migratory journey of birds is a marvel of nature. Two dozen neotropical bird species travel thousands of miles between the Willamette Valley in Oregon and the Laja River Basin in Mexico. This passage is a movement of species and a vital ecological process.

Migration is also an outstanding way to dive into the many layers of ecology and show the interconnectedness of far-off places. ECO's new program, Aves Compartidas (shared birds), introduces students to essential ecological concepts and connects students across 3300 miles!

Aves interweaves cultures, geography, and ecology. Students study the flight paths of the Great Blue Heron, the Rufous Hummingbird, and the Black-Throated Gray Warbler. As these long-distance fliers travel, they move nutrients, pollinate, and disperse seeds, contributing to the health of the lands they visit. Students, in turn, discover the biodiversity of the aquatic, riparian, and oak woodland habitats their avian guides traverse.

Aves Compartidas provides a thrilling way for students to connect and share experiences, learn about ecological challenges, and share conservation efforts across vast distances. Aves brings a unique approach to climate action and dynamic content to our growing Spanish immersion programs at Oregon Title 1 schools.

The warmest welcomes to our new Aves Compartidas team members!

Carina Zehr

Aves Program Coordinator she/her(s)

Carina earned her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science and Sociology and a Master’s in Environmental Education from Goshen College, Indiana. Her love of nature began as a child playing in the diverse ecosystems of eastern Bolivia, central Argentina and south-central Kansas. Her work in environmental education has taken many forms over the last eight years, from school gardening to forest kindergartens, centered around her passion for connecting children to nature.

Sebastian Witherow

Partnership Coordinator he/him/his

Sebastian earned a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology and another in Sustainability from Oregon State University. These disciplines echo his deep-rooted commitment to a holistic understanding of our planet and his passion for social, economic, and environmental sustainability. His dream is to witness a transformative shift in the way the general public views and addresses environmental challenges.

Message from the Board

Thank you for a wonderful 2023! We welcomed new team members and seized exciting opportunities thanks to the support of our partners and community. We'd especially like to thank Bethany Thomas for her years of dedication as ECO's co-founder and guidance as interim board president. In 2024, we know ECO will continue to impact students through hands-on ecology, stewardship, and climate action. We wish you all a new year of growth!

Give!Guide ends on 12/31!

Hot tip: A $10 donation is all you need to enter to win prizes on Big Give Days. Increase your chances of winning by making multiple $10 donations.

Support our mission through Give!Guide >>

December 27

Win one of two $250 gift certificates from Atlas Tattoo. No tattoos? No sweat. Winners can give their big prize to a friend and make a lasting impression.

December 28

Hello bird lovers, today is your day. Donate for a chance to win a $500 gift card from Backyard Bird Shop.

December 29

People and plants go well together. Win a $500 gift card from Portland Nursery.

December 30

Oregon getaway package: Visit three iconic heritage sites: The Liberty Theatre, the Santiam Pass Ski Lodge, and Athena’s Gem Theatre.

We are grateful to our Give!Guide business partners Brew Dr. Kombucha, Moberi, Blackbird Benefits, and Sasquatch HR for their ongoing support and work to be positive forces within our community.

Brew Dr. Kombucha values ECO's work to empower the next generation of environmental stewards, advocates, and scientists. This Portland-grown certified B-Corp maintains carbon-neutral operations, has run on 100% renewable energy since 2018, and recycled over half a million gallons of alcohol into biofuel. AND they support local organizations like ours for the betterment of people and planet.

Moberi knows handcrafted acai bowls and smoothies and the value of hands-on ecology education. They believe our mission is crucial to how the next generation protects our planet. Moberi creates the tastiest flavor combinations from ingredients that are the kind of quality that makes your body feel loved. And they support ECO with such steadfast dedication our earth must feel the love.

Sasquatch HR serves non-profits and small businesses with human resource leadership to create better workplaces. They believe everyone has the right to a rewarding work experience. Like ECO, they are rooted in the community and here for change. They have expertly guided us in updating our employee handbook through a DEIJ lens and now provide ongoing HR support.

Blackbird Benefits Collective is a women-owned independent employee benefits company, serving Portland for 20 years. They value bringing strategy, human connection, and heart to the usual and impersonal benefits programs.

We can personally attest to the heart they bring--thanks to them, our team has benefits!