I read a book recently that touched on the concept of “repairing the world”. Essentially, making the world a better place. My husband and I have several charities we support but we wanted to do something closer to our home, Carefree. We decided to start the New Year by making a significant donation to Carefree Park – a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to acquiring and preserving 48 acres of State Land just a few minutes from downtown Carefree.
Our gentle winters make Arizona a desirable place to live. As a result, more of the desert is being destroyed to keep up with the demand for houses. Development also places an intense burden on our dwindling water supplies. We feel we can make Carefree a better place by helping to save this 48 acres of State Land in perpetuity.
We are an aging retirement community. Most of us are or were avid hikers and we want to continue to be out exploring the desert. But the older we get the more we need hiking areas that are safe. Ones where we are close to help and don’t risk getting lost or dehydrated without quick access to emergency services. This 48 acres of State Land is only minutes from downtown Carefree and Rural Metro. And while it might not be as stunning as some of the larger and more remote hiking areas, it will be a safe and easily accessible 4 to 5 mile trail system winding through ancient saguaros, dramatic crucifixion thorn trees and commanding amazing views of the sunsets over Black Mountain.
This is how we have chosen to start 2024 and making our world a little better.
I hope others will join us in generously donating to Carefree Park. Contact CarefreePark.org
Stephanie and Ian Barbour
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