The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (AppalachianTrail.org) has worked for more than 30 years to protect and maintain the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail, which spans from Georgia to Maine and attracts some 3 million hikers every year. Through a network of trained trail crews and volunteer clubs, the ATC clears trails of undergrowth and fallen trees, diverts streams, and builds and maintains bridges, stairs, campsites, and hundreds of lean-tos. It also deploys “ridgerunners” to monitor the state of the trail and teach hikers how to leave no trace. In addition to its stewardship, the ATC hosts youth programs and works with federal agencies to protect the land surrounding the trail. So far, its advocacy has helped to preserve a 250,000-acre greenway through the Appalachian Mountains.
Each charity we feature has earned a four-star overall rating from Charity Navigator, which rates not-for-profit organizations on the strength of their finances, their control of administrative and fundraising expenses, and the transparency of their operations. Four stars is the group’s highest rating.
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