March is Women’s History Month; a month that highlights the contributions of women to our communities, organizations, and missions. We take this time in early spring to celebrate women who uplift, encourage, and help empower those within our localities. While there are many women who push the envelope forward, Jane McKevitt of the Ted Trueblood Trout Unlimited Chapter in Boise, Idaho embodies the spirit of contribution to her community.
Jane is an Idaho native, born in Moscow and grew up in Boise. Jane was an educator for 33 years; she spent her career teaching in elementary education. She found pure joy in transitioning into educating children on the outdoors and the environment. Working with kids and inspiring and leading youth has always been a core value Jane has embodied.
Jane began her TU involvement six years ago when a fellow friend and TU board member persuaded Jane to get involved in a new youth fishing club that they were launching called Woolly Buggers. Jane jumped in with both feet, working hard to co-develop this program. Together, with a team of others, Jane has helped support and grow Woolly Buggers to the respected program it is today. Jane also became involved with Trout Camp for kids as a gillie (volunteer) and is now the registrar and a key member of the camp planning committee. Eventually, Jane became a board member for the chapter as well. As a board member, Jane helps plan and execute monthly programs, local events and fundraisers; she continues to help coordinate and run youth programs, and she brings a spark to each idea and meeting.
When asked how others should empower their communities in the same way Jane has, her response was “Be open minded and keep your ideas fluid – brainstorm with others– throwing ideas out leads to the ‘next level’ idea that fosters an achievable goal. Make it accessible for people to succeed with you, even if it’s one little piece of the puzzle. The bottom line is that personal outreach, growing relationships and gratitude are key”
TU is very lucky to have Jane as an extraordinary volunteer. She highlights our mission of bringing together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon.
Written by Ashlynn Goody, Policy & Outreach Associate for Idaho Trout Unlimited based in Boise, Idaho.