For the past six years, Kim Strader has been the heart of Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s volunteer program. As our Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, Kim made sure our mission was always supported by a strong, enthusiastic, and difference-making network of committed volunteers.

Kim in one of the vernal pools at JK Black Oak. Photo by Jenny Erickson

Kim came to Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy (LWC) from the State Arboretum of Virginia, where she served as the Assistant Curator of the Native Plant Trail. When she joined LWC’s staff in 2019, our volunteer program was still finding its footing. Kim shaped it into a true powerhouse, adding structure, strategy, and focus. Beyond the systems she built, Kim formed meaningful connections with volunteers, ensuring they always felt valued and appreciated.

“She embodied the volunteer program at LWC,” says Doreen Varblow, LWC’s Office Management Specialist. “She always made sure our programs were executed flawlessly.”

Kim didn’t just coordinate our volunteers, though; she also volunteered herself, something she plans to keep doing!

“Kim has a curiosity that is contagious and is always the first person to volunteer to search for amphibians on cold and rainy nights when most people want to stay cozy indoors,” says Jenny Erickson, LWC’s Amphibian & Reptile Monitoring program coordinator. “Whether she’s observing emerging eastern spadefoots or fairy shrimp in a vernal pool, Kim shines as a valuable volunteer for this program.”

While Kim has taken on a new role with the Town of Front Royal Tourism Department, she leaves behind a powerful legacy at LWC, evidenced by our record-setting volunteer numbers in 2024: 625 volunteers donating more than 15,000 hours to our mission!

“I love Loudoun,” Kim shares. “Our volunteers are incredible, so knowledgeable and inspiring. I have learned and experienced so much from them, and I will greatly miss them.”

“We’ll miss you too, Kim,” adds LWC Executive Director Tom Kercheval. “Thank you for everything you’ve given to LWC, and to the wildlife and community we serve.”

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