One trip to these mountains can change your life forever. For some who come here, a dose of Teton inspiration leads to great things for the park.
In the mid-90s, Bill Baxter left Tennessee for a hike in the Tetons. Captivated by that first experience, Bill returned with his family shortly thereafter and later, brought them back for the millennial New Year’s celebration. They packed their champagne and trekked into the park to ring in a new century. The night was freezing, but the memory of that special evening was one of many that continues to lead the Baxter family back to these iconic mountains year after year. In 2004, Bill bought the Wort Hotel and has made it his business to keep Grand Teton National Park firmly in the hearts of guests ever since.
Bill called the Foundation shortly after his first trip to offer his support because he served on the Friends of the Smokies board and understood the positive impact the private sector can have on national parks. “There’s something to be said for being able to make priorities happen in the park.” For Bill and his wife, Ginger, the visitor center was the signature project they felt the park needed.
At the Wort, Bill initially sold bottled water and gave a portion of sales to the Foundation. Now, the $1/night check-off program, an idea conceived by Clay James at Grand Teton Lodge Company to give guests a way to participate in park stewardship, is the Wort’s vehicle for supporting park programs.
The NPS will always be short on funding for specialized projects and businesses are in an ideal position to make a difference. In Bill’s view, it’s critical for Jackson companies to support Grand Teton. “Number one, it’s the right thing to do. It’s also an intelligent business decision; take care of the drawing card for your local economy.” By partnering on programs, companies generate goodwill, infuse programs with cash to keep them running, and further the conversation about park challenges. In a day of heightened awareness about our impact on resources, consumers want to protect wilderness, and they want to work with companies that share their commitment.
For Bill and many other individuals who are park enthusiasts first and business owners second, a chance to be involved with one of America’s most iconic parks is a privilege beyond compare. “The Tetons changed my life, it’s an awesome experience in the true sense of the word. To support this great park—it’s something to be proud of.”
The Foundation thanks the many businesses that generously support innovative projects in Grand Teton. For a complete list of our local and national corporate partners, visit www.gtnpf.org. Want to get involved? Contact Leslie Mattson at 307-732-0629.
