By Jeremy Hatt

Early in 2026, ECFNC was honoured to receive a micro-grant of $2,600 on behalf of Point Pelee National Park through the Government of Canada’s Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) program. The purpose of the grant is to support partners and stakeholders in developing and enhancing programs and products that are more inclusive, accessible, and effective for a wider range of people, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity for the people of Canada.

As outlined in the June issue of The Egret, ECFNC used part of this grant money to provide transportation via South Essex Community Council (SECC) to the Birding With Pride event at Point Pelee. This was coordinated with Diversity Dignity Leamington (DDL), a Spanish-speaking support group for the local 2SLGTQIA+ Community that provides a safe, welcoming environment to newcomers and residents to connect, receive support, and access essential resources in their native language.

ECFNC continues to build its relationship with DDL, providing funds to support the group participating in outdoor or nature-related events. On July 19, DDL held a BBQ at Seacliff Park, and ECFNC provided the necessary funds for the event. Over 20 people attended, providing a chance for newcomers to meet fellow members of the LGBTQ+ Community and share a fun, relaxing afternoon at the park. Hot dogs, hamburgers, snacks, drinks, and desserts were all provided.

Diversity Dignity Leamington attending the BBQ at Seacliff Park- photos by Jeremy Hatt

Attendees off the BBQ enjoying gorgeous weather and good food – photo by Liliana Salazar

ECFNC is proud to support groups like DDL who are making a significant difference in our local community. As a member of the Board of both ECFNC and DDL, I hope to continue to strengthen our relationship and support further events that are more inclusive and accessible.

After the Seacliff Park BBQ, ECFNC received the following letter on behalf of SECC and DDL. It is important that ECFNC continues to build relationships with other community groups in Essex County so we can all enjoy and appreciate the natural world.

“Dear Essex County Nature,

On behalf of the South Essex Community Council (SECC) and Diversity and Dignity Leamington (DDL LGBTQ+), we would like to express our sincere gratitude for your generous financial support.

DDL LGBTQ+ has grown from a small gathering of LGBTQ+ newcomers and refugees into a welcoming grassroots community that continues to grow and provide a safe, inclusive space for connection and belonging. SECC has been proud to support the group’s journey by providing guidance and resources, and it has been inspiring to see the community flourish.

 Your donation allowed us to invite members of the LGBTQ+ community and English language students from Leamington to participate in Essex County Nature’s annual birdwatching event at Point Pelee National Park. For many participants, it was their first time attending this wonderful event and a meaningful opportunity to connect with nature, make new friends, and feel welcomed as part of the broader community.

 We are also grateful for your support of our DDL LGBTQ BBQ at Seacliff Park. Your generosity helped create a safe and welcoming space where LGBTQ+ newcomers could come together, build friendships, and simply enjoy being themselves in an environment where they felt accepted and included.

We would also like to thank Jeremy for helping connect our organizations. His support has made it possible for more people to participate in these meaningful experiences and has strengthened the partnership between Essex County Nature and our community.

 Thank you once again for your generosity and your commitment to building a more welcoming and inclusive Essex County. We truly appreciate your partnership and look forward to working together again in the future.

With sincere gratitude,

 Liliana Salazar (SECC) and Rene Lemus Jimenez (DDL)”