The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) is the newest partner to join the Conscious Step nonprofit roster! With 9 pairs now in our collaboration (we just launched 3 more in case you missed it), doing everything from protecting the smallest owls to the largest bears, we thought we’d take a second to talk more about the amazing work they do and why we’re proud to be a supporter.

Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than 1.6 million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s most iconic and inspirational places for future generations. NPCA Founder Robert Sterling Yard called it the “fearless and outspoken defender of the people’s parks.” More than a century later, they continue to serve this role, with millions of park advocates across the country. 

Our national parks provide some of the best, and sadly sometimes last, remaining habitats for countless species. They serve as anchors for larger ecosystems, supporting broader conservation efforts. So when public lands get the attention they deserve, so do their wildlife: from the moose of Denali to the songbirds of the south.

But that’s not all that the NPCA does. Their work has 3 main priorities: 

1. To ensure national parks thrive for the next 100 years
   National parks safeguard America’s iconic landscapes and wildlife, and preserve our history and cultural artifacts. They protect America’s legacy so that our parks endure for future generations.
2. That national parks tell the stories of all Americans
   National parks protect our country’s most important history, rich culture and stunning landscapes – and there is still work to be done to tell our stories, past and present, and give all Americans the opportunity to see themselves in our parklands.
3. That national parks have the strongest, most diverse and engaged generation of advocates in history
   They’re inspiring the next generation of park advocates, engaging them to speak up for national parks and equipping them with the tools to do so.

Support from external partners is essential to ensuring our national parks remain protected and are places everyone can explore and benefit from. That means the wildlife, too! That’s why we’re donating $1 per pair sold back to help them accomplish their mission and keep parks beautiful and hospitable for all life forms.

So if you’re looking for the perfect gift for that outdoorsy friend, or just want to wear your love of national parks yourself, we’ve got a sock collection you might want to explore! Get out there and protect the parks!