EYNC Updates
From Stabilization to Strategy: Six-Month Action Plan Completed, Next Phase Begins
Just six months ago, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center was operating with only six weeks of cash reserves. Today, it stands on a much firmer foundation—with over four months of reserves, a balanced budget, and a $180,000 surplus.The turnaround has been possible thanks to a six-month action plan supported by a wide network of committed Board members, community members, volunteers, and staff.
Key Milestones from the Six-Month Action Plan (Jan–June 2025)
Financial Stability
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Grew cash reserves from just six weeks of operating funds to more than four months—plus a $180,000 surplus.
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Maintained critical staffing that ensures essential functions and brought furloughed team members back.
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Instituted tighter financial controls with updated policies, a new payroll system, and strengthened oversight from our CPA and Treasurer.
Governance and Leadership
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Welcomed seven new Board members in the last year—more than half the Board—bringing essential experience in nonprofit management, water resource management, project management, law, finance, and community leadership.
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Reorganized and streamlined Board committees for greater transparency and effectiveness.
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Adopted new Board policies to provide strong, consistent guardrails for decision-making:
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Procurement Policy
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Internal Financial Controls Policy
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Grievance Policy
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Board–Executive Director Relations Policy
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Newly adopted Board policies—along with future updates—will be posted at www.effieyeawnature.org/arnha-policies.
Leadership Development
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Transitioned Rachael Cowan from Associate to Interim Executive Director following a successful mentorship and onboarding plan supported by Betty Cooper and Paul Tebbel.
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Restored the Volunteer Coordinator position and added capacity where needed—always within our approved budget.
Community Confidence
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Successfully executed two major events—Bird and Breakfast and NatureFest—reaffirming community support and engagement.
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Welcomed the return of longtime volunteers and introduced new faces to the Nature Center family.
County Partnership
Responded constructively to Sacramento County’s compliance review. While no fraud or mismanagement was found, we are addressing recommendations to improve documentation and internal controls, many of which are already underway.
What’s Next
Now that the Center is on stable footing, ARNHA is preparing a three-year business plan to guide its future. This next phase will focus on:
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Growing membership and community support
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Expanding education programs for children, youth, and adults
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Continuing to rebuild the Animal Ambassador program, starting with reptiles and amphibians
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Strengthening partnerships with local schools, organizations, and tribal communities
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Developing annual benchmarks to track progress and outcomes
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This is a transition from stabilization to growth—moving from surviving to thriving. And at its core, it’s a return to who we are.
For decades, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center has inspired curiosity, protected a vital stretch of the American River, and honored the Maidu tradition of living in harmony with nature. It remains a place where people of all ages connect with the natural world.
These values will guide the next chapter. The six-month plan brought stability. The three-year plan will carry us forward—with your continued support.
ARNHA Announces New Interim Director
The American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Rachael Cowan has been appointed Interim Executive Director of Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC), effective immediately.
Rachael was hired as Associate Executive Director earlier this year as part of a leadership restructuring intended to build long-term capacity for the Nature Center. Over the past several months, she has worked closely with Interim Executive Director Betty Cooper and the ARNHA Board, receiving mentorship and training to support a smooth transition in leadership. Former Executive Director, Paul Tebbel also provided valuable guidance during this time, contributing to Rachael’s preparation for the role.
Rachael brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the role, including six years previously at the Nature Center (2014 through 2020) as a Staff Naturalist and later as a Volunteer Coordinator. Her background includes expertise in financial oversight, program development, partnership building, and donor engagement. Her thoughtful, collaborative approach has already contributed significantly to ARNHA’s operational improvements and planning efforts.
Rachael’s appointment reflects both her exceptional capabilities and the ARNHA Board’s broader effort to strengthen leadership and secure the long-term success of the Nature Center. The restructuring of the Executive Director position and creation of a development pathway through the Associate role are part of a larger set of strategic changes—including improved financial policies, streamlined staffing, and renewed focus on governance and fundraising—designed to promote sustainability and effective stewardship.
We are fortunate to have attracted a person of Rachael’s experience and commitment to this position. We look forward to Rachael’s continued leadership in this new capacity as we work together to support EYNC’s mission and long-term success!
With Gratitude: How Our Community Helped EYNC Rebuild and Thrive
The Effie Yeaw Nature Center has always been a place rooted in community. That connection carried us through one of the most difficult times in our history—and it’s why we are stronger today.
In Fall 2024, when staffing and leadership challenges threatened the Center’s operations, our community stepped up. Volunteers gave generously of their time and talent. Betty Cooper assumed the role of Interim Executive Director without compensation, providing steady leadership during a time of uncertainty. Jamie Washington, a former volunteer coordinator, also returned to guide docent engagement and support our educational team. From website design to outreach and communications, countless individuals pitched in to keep us going.
Your donations—large and small—made the difference. In just six weeks, more than $500,000 was raised, with $200,000 coming from over 40 individual donors. These early investments made it possible to implement a six-month recovery plan, maintain programming, and restore staff to full-time status.
Our staff, even while furloughed, never gave up. Their dedication ensured the doors stayed open and children continued to learn about the wonders of nature. Today, we are once again expanding our programs and welcoming more young learners to the trails, classrooms, and exhibits of EYNC.
We are also thankful to Sacramento County for its partnership and guidance throughout our recovery—pushing us to strengthen operations and governance.
To everyone who helped—whether you led from the front or supported quietly behind the scenes—thank you. Every effort, every hour, every dollar mattered. We are deeply grateful for your belief in this place and in its future.
Because of you, EYNC continues to serve, inspire, and grow.
ARNHA Refocuses Fundraising Efforts for a More Sustainable Funding Base
As part of our ongoing efforts to foster the long-term sustainability of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC), ARNHA is refocusing its fundraising efforts to emphasize major gifts, individual giving, and corporate support. This shift is aimed at reducing dependence on fundraising events and appeals, helping to build a more stable and diverse funding base.
Our primary goal is to strengthen our membership and donor base while increasing corporate financial support, especially in the form of unrestricted funding to cover staff pay and overhead expenses. To achieve this, we are taking several key steps:
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Growing Membership: We aim to grow our current membership over the next several years. This will be accomplished by engaging potential members during their visits to EYNC, recruiting new members through local community outreach, and targeting underserved groups and communities.
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Increasing Corporate and Foundation Support: We plan to enhance our efforts to secure corporate and foundation funding by connecting with Sacramento regional corporations and foundations that align with our mission. Through Board members and volunteers, we’ll set up meetings to showcase the impact of our work and make the case for financial support.
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Cultivating Individual Donors: We are committed to increasing individual donations by cultivating relationships with current donors, providing regular updates, and offering opportunities for special engagement, including donor appreciation events and nature tours led by our expert naturalists.
In addition to these focused efforts, we will also explore planned giving, partnerships with complementary organizations, and grant opportunities. While signature events like the Gala, Birds and Breakfast, NatureFest, and our Holiday Sale remain important, the strategic refocus on major gifts, individual donations, and corporate support will ensure EYNC’s long-term financial health.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We want to express our deepest gratitude to our members and donors whose support has been vital in sustaining the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. Your contributions, especially in recent months, have been instrumental in helping us weather difficult times and continue to provide invaluable educational and conservation programs. We look forward to continuing to work alongside you as we build a stronger, more sustainable future for EYNC.
Strengthening Partnerships
for a Brighter Future
Collaboration has always been a cornerstone for the ARNHA and EYNC. Looking ahead, we are focusing on expanding and enhancing these partnerships to create synergies, broaden our impact, and strengthen our community connections. Key areas for partnerships are:
Local Governments and Parks
Sacramento County Regional Parks and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife are long-term partners for the EYNC. Increasing our collaborations could include co-managing educational programs like Salmon Days, supporting habitat enhancement through joint conservation grants, and partnering on infrastructure improvements, such as educational signage, trail maintenance, and accessibility upgrades like benches and picnic tables.
Local Schools and Universities
We envision building stronger partnerships with local schools and universities, such as the San Juan Unified School District and Sacramento State University. These partnerships could provide field trips, curriculum-aligned nature education, internships, research opportunities for students, and teacher training using EYNC’s resources. We will leverage our existing partnership with UC California Naturalists to expand adult education.
Non-Profits and Environmental Organizations
Collaboration with organizations like SMUD’s Museum of Science and Curiosity, the California Native Plant Society, and the Audubon Society, and the American River Parkway organizations could bring joint events such as creek cleanups, habitat restoration projects, and Earth Day festivals. Sharing resources and facilities for youth summer camps could mutually enrich these programs. These collaborative efforts would also foster cross-promotion of missions and build volunteer bases for environmental advocacy.
Corporate and Community Sponsors
We see potential in working with local businesses such as REI, Save Mart, and other eco-minded companies, along with neighborhood associations such as Carmichael Rotary and CCNA, to support sponsorships for exhibits, fundraising events, donation drives, and employee volunteer days. These partnerships would help expand our donor base and ensure sustainable support for our programs.
Tribal and Cultural Organizations
We hope to collaborate with local Indigenous groups, like the Nisenan people, to co-create educational programs reflecting the history and culture of the original stewards of the land. This could include storytelling events, cultural exhibits, and lessons on ethical land use, enriching our educational offerings.
We invite you to join us in shaping the future of EYNC. If you have ideas or suggestions for potential collaborations, we encourage you to share them with us. Together, we can create a foundation for a more resilient and impactful future for the Effie Yeaw Nature Center.
Strategic Leadership Enhancements
Fuel Forward Momentum
The American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) is ushering in a new chapter with enhanced leadership and governance to support the long-term success of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center.
In recent months, ARNHA has strengthened its leadership with key appointments in governance, finance, and legal oversight. Greg Dewey, who joined the Board in January 2024, now serves as Board President and co-chairs the Governance Committee. He brings deep experience in board development and organizational leadership. Dan Crosbie, a CPA, is serving as Treasurer and brings critical financial expertise to help enhance fiscal accountability. Legal advisor Dick Shanahan, a former chair of the Jesuit High School Board, is supporting the development of updated policies and governance documents. These appointments reflect ARNHA’s commitment to a strong and capable leadership team. With more than half of the Board appointed within the last year, ARNHA has a Board with a broad set of skills, a range of experience, and a new vision.
You can find the full list of Board Members here.
In parallel, ARNHA has streamlined its committee structure to align with nonprofit best practices. Three core committees—Internal, External, and Governance—now guide strategic decision-making with greater transparency and participation. These changes are strengthening oversight, communications, and financial accountability.
A major step forward also includes the hiring of Rachael Cowan as Associate Executive Director. Rachael brings over two decades of nonprofit leadership, including prior experience at the Nature Center. She is working closely with Interim Executive Director Betty Cooper and Board leadership in a development model designed to build long-term capacity and leadership continuity. Over the coming months, Rachael is receiving mentorship and operational training, with the potential to transition into the Executive Director role in the future.
Together, these changes reflect ARNHA’s commitment to strong, stable leadership and effective governance in support of its mission to support nature education and conservation in the Sacramento region.
Enhancing Financial and Operational Oversight
The American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) is implementing important improvements to strengthen its internal operations and financial oversight. These changes are designed to enhance transparency, align with nonprofit best practices, and support the long-term success of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center.
Key improvements are underway in payroll and human resources. ARNHA has hired a new payroll service provider, streamlining payroll preparation, review, and approval. A human resources consultant has also been brought on board to ensure labor law compliance and support the adoption of sound HR practices. Additionally, the Internal Affairs Committee is reviewing payroll processes and will recommend further enhancements within the next three months.
ARNHA is also developing and codifying a comprehensive set of internal control policies to improve financial oversight. These policies establish clear responsibilities for labor and employment actions, such as requiring Board approval for employee handbooks, compensation schedules, and new positions. The Executive Director retains operational hiring authority, within Board-approved guidelines.
New financial controls cover key areas including cash handling, debit card use, expense reimbursements, disbursements, income recording, payroll review, and bank account authority. A system of checks and balances is being established to prevent errors, improve accountability, and verify the accuracy of all transactions.
The goal is to put in place a reliable framework that supports responsible growth, protects organizational assets, and promotes confidence among donors, staff, and volunteers. These updates mark a significant step forward in ARNHA’s commitment to strong governance and operational excellence.
At a Glance: Key Improvements
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New payroll service provider and review process
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Human resources consultant hired to ensure compliance
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Internal Affairs Committee reviewing payroll procedures
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New internal controls for cash, debit card use, reimbursements, and payroll
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Board-approved policies for hiring, compensation, and grievance procedures
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Strengthened oversight by the Executive Director and Treasurer
ARNHA Meeting Highlights
4/23/25
We had a wonderful gathering at the Nature Center this week. For those who couldn’t join us, here are a few highlights:
The Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC) has served the Carmichael community for over 50 years, providing immersive experiences in wildlife, ecology, and conservation. Managed by the American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) since 2010, the Center has recently faced financial challenges due to the loss of COVID-related funding, decreased donations, staff turnover, and insufficient financial oversight.
To ensure long-term sustainability, ARNHA is implementing key improvements:
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Strengthening financial oversight with new policies, better recordkeeping, and engagement of a certified public accountancy firm.
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Refreshing board leadership and restructuring committees to improve efficiency and transparency.
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Refocusing fundraising on major gifts, individual donations, and corporate sponsorships.
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Restructuring operations, including leadership changes and payroll reductions while maintaining essential staffing.
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Launching a short-term action plan (Jan–June 2025) to stabilize operations and secure funding.
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Developing a three-year business plan to boost financial health, grow programming, and strengthen partnerships.
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Collaborating with Sacramento County to ensure compliance and transparency.

ARNHA remains committed to keeping EYNC a vibrant, educational sanctuary and community treasure. With community support and a clear strategy, EYNC will continue to inspire environmental stewardship for generations to come.
Want to learn more?
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View the PowerPoint presentation from the Membership Meeting
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View our list of Frequently Asked Questions
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Six-Month Action Plan Underway, Long-Term Business Plan in Development
ARNHA has launched a six-month action plan to stabilize operations and lay the foundation for a stronger future for the Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC). This plan, which runs through June 30, 2025, focuses on essential areas such as financial oversight, governance, and organizational development.
The six-month action plan includes key steps to address immediate challenges, including:
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Stabilizing Finances: Reworking budgets, improving cash flow, and restructuring leadership to promote financial health.
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Improving Governance: Refreshing the Board, enhancing leadership practices, and strengthening oversight.
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Fundraising and Community Engagement: Developing new, targeted fundraising strategies to secure resources and strengthen community relationships.
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Read the Action Plan here
In parallel, ARNHA is developing a longer-term Business Plan to guide operations for the next three years. This comprehensive plan will focus on revenue generation, growth of membership, strategic expansion of programs, and building collaborations and partnerships that help ensure ENYC’s long-term viability. It will provide the roadmap for sustainable growth so that EYNC continues to fulfill its educational and stewardship missions.
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The combination of the six-month action plan and the upcoming Business Plan both address current challenges and also position ARNHA for a resilient future. By focusing on financial health, effective governance, and community engagement, these plans will help ARNHA move past recent challenges and ensure a thriving Effie Yeaw Nature Center for years to come.​
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Monday, March 3, 2025
After thoughtful discussion, the EYNC Acting Executive Director supported by the ARNHA Board of Directors has decided that the Annual Gala originally scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025 will be rescheduled to Sunday, September 28, 2025 in recognition of current staffing at the Nature Center to provide sufficient time for the successful preparation of this important fundraising event.
Announcement: Rachael Cowan to be the new EYNC Associate Executive Director 1/21/25
The American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) Board of Directors is very pleased to announce that Rachael Cowan has been hired to be the Associate Executive Director at Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC), effective February 17, 2025. Ms. Cowan, in the past 20 years, has held leadership positions in four non-profits, including 6 years previously with the Nature Center (2014 through 2020) as a Staff Naturalist and later as a Volunteer Coordinator.
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Over the course of her career, she has shown herself to be a detail-oriented, organized individual who works well with others. Her work history reflects experience and expertise in financial management, program oversight, collaborative ventures and constituency building. In her most recent employment, she has worked as a fundraiser demonstrating a clear ability to engage with existing and potential donors, including individuals, foundations, corporations, and public entities. At EYNC, she will assist our current Interim Executor Director, Betty Cooper. We look forward to her bringing her talents and leadership skills to the Nature Center.
