Abeer Jadallah - UPG Champion Page

Secret Reef - Don't Trash Our Treasure Link

I’m not exactly sure when I first heard about UPG maybe through a school project but what I am sure about is how deeply I believe in the work they’re doing. Every day, I’m witnessing the consequences of treating the environment like an afterthought. We’re seeing those impacts right here in our neighborhoods and across the world.

I’m not a native Floridian. I was born in Palestine, where nature cares for you if you care for it — from the za’atar fields to the olive trees. Later, I lived in semi-rural Ohio, surrounded by gardens, forests, wild berries, and trees. Those experiences shaped me. They taught me how connected we are to the land… and how much its loss matters. Today, many of those simple, beautiful things feel harder to find.

I care about all parts of the environment, but the tree canopy and butterflies are especially close to my heart. They’re reminders of how stunning nature can be, and how quickly that beauty disappears when we overdevelop and ignore the signs around us. I’ve watched areas of North Miami and Miami Shores change dramatically. Places that never flooded now do. I have to think twice about driving if heavy rain is expected. That’s not normal. And it’s not the world I want to leave behind.

My biggest motivation is my grandchildren. I worry about the world they will inherit. The world feels like it’s on fire — sometimes literally — and our most urgent task is making sure the planet can still sustain humanity. Supporting UPG is one way I can help push back, even a little, against the damage and create something better.

I’m fundraising because I want a safer, healthier, more resilient world for my grandchildren and for all future generations. And I believe UPG is doing the work that can help make that possible.

Please join me in supporting UPG and their work twenty $25 donations helps me get to my goal. Every donation is matched which means every amount you donate is doubled!