June Hassman

Giving the Gift of Giving

June Hassman is the youngest supporter of Bur Oak Land Trust. At just six years old, this first grader has developed a love for nature along with her family, who shared their story with us.

“We try to see nature everywhere,” explains June’s father Ben Hassman, “from hiking places like Bur Oak lands to picnics in our yard to seeing nature inside our home. June loves to read and learn, and finding ways to connect that knowledge to our yard and neighborhood and countryside feels great.”

He says the whole family had a great day when they picnicked for all three meals. There is a desire to be outdoors for June, because nature is calming for her. She says she is “team nature,” which means being helpful to plants and animals.

“I really just like being outside and talking to animals,” she explains, “I like to go to Turkey Creek, Belgum Grove — I like to call it ‘Bubblegum Grove’ — and Big Grove. I like to go there to see nature. I talk to the birds, the wind, the grass and the creatures far below hibernating. You just need to learn how to send a wind note to do it.”

Her grandmother, Dotta Hassman, recently made a donation to Bur Oak Land Trust in her honor. She says her yearly gifts to each of her grandchildren include donations to a cause of their choice.

“Some choose cancer research, some choose food rescue, some choose Heifer International,” she says, “June chose Bur Oak Land Trust. I was happy to make a small donation in her honor.”

Thanks Hassman family for cultivating the love of nature in your family and for your support!

If you’d like to give a gift in honor or memory of someone special, donate here.