Trailblazers
These donors have gone above and beyond to serve their community and our mission with their gifts
The Wilds
We are so grateful that The Wilds has donated a part of their land for our use and implementation of our programs. We could not do what we do without them! Their donation was the first of its kind for Red Oaks and helped us imagine a way to serve our community with so many.
The Wilds is a cabin rental experience like none other around. Their community-minded approach gives you the chance to rent a cabin, explore the land, canoe and paddle, fish in your own private pond, and have nature-immersive experiences, all without leaving the property. Also, it’s just minutes from the Red River Gorge and world class rock climbing.
Dr. David Westneat
Dr. Westneat has embodied what it means to be there for the youth in our community. He is there rain or shine, week after week, to work with teens and introduce them to the wonderful world of birds. He has opened up a workforce pathway and new passions through his commitment and co-creation of the Taking Flight Next Level program. This program is offered free and in an under-resourced area in Lexington to remove barriers to high-quality science and wildlife education and experiences. We can’t thank him enough!
Dr. Westneat is also the Director of the University of Kentucky’s Ecological Research and Education Center (EREC) Field Station which serves as a Lexington location to increase access to nature.
Learn more about the EREC here.
Jamie and John Fitzwater
Jamie and John Fitzwater, along with their entire family, embody the heart and soul of Red Oaks. Their generosity knows no bounds—they provide essential funding, prepare meals for our community, help maintain our sites, belay and support climbing, and lend their time and expertise in countless ways. Jamie contributes her skills in grant writing and serves on our board, while both Jamie and John consistently step up to ensure more children have access to the transformative experiences our programs offer.
Their unwavering dedication and hands-on support truly reflect the spirit of a Trailblazer—paving the way for future generations to connect with nature, learn, and grow. We are deeply grateful for their impact and honored to have them as part of the Red Oaks family.
W6th Farm
West Sixth has been a generous supporter of Red Oaks mission for a long time, but now they have helped us bring programming to Frankfort with the use of their beautiful space! Their generous donation has helped us reduce barriers by offering programming in Frankfort. West Sixth is a huge supporter of their community. Get out to the farm or any of their locations and support them in return. Enjoy delicious craft beer and spirits from one of their many locations.
Learn more about them here.
Cliffview Resort
Cliffview Resort has been a significant sponsor for many years. They also hosted our 10 year anniversary party to help us celebrate this huge milestone at no cost to us so we could keep all of our donor dollars in our programs. We could not keep the lights on without businesses like Cliffview that invest in their community!
Learn more here.
Red River Gorgeous
Amy and Aaron Dourson and their company Red River Gorgeous have dedicated time, expertise, equipment, and cabin donations to help Red Oaks raise money and keep The Wilds location in good shape. They also donate a portion of their sales to Red Oaks to help us hire high quality staff while keeping costs low. We are so grateful to them!
Red River Gorgeous Wilderness Cabin Rentals is an eco-conscious company whose ethics and building style are reflected in their beautiful wilderness cabins and fabulous tree houses. Located in the heart of the Red River Gorge, they have something for you and your escape to nature.
Kentucky River Field School
Trip Sweeney and his non-profit Kentucky River Field School have provided so much support over the years! From inspiring and hosting our first Teen Week, to kickstarting Taking Flight Next Level, to providing space for us to host programs like Nature Wellness Days and Conservation Club - he has demonstrated a huge commitment to helping kids of all ages get outdoors! We are so grateful for his support.
Learn more about them here.