Our Stories

2023 Volunteer Awards: Blue Blazes Benefactor

Larry Pio and Suzanne Darling

For 23 years, Larry has demonstrated commitment to the NCNST by investing in the success of the NCTA. Since becoming a member in 2000, he and his wife Suzanne have financially supported the mission with annual gifts and in-kind contributions. He regularly requests generous grant contributions to the NCTA through his Donor Advised Fund. Larry, who is retired, has also embraced his former employer’s Corporate Matching Gift program, doubling his gift’s impact. He spent years as a volunteer leader too, with both the NCTA Chief Noonday Chapter in Michigan and the NCTA Board of Directors. Because of Larry, volunteers were seen, land managers were thanked, trail towns flourished, supporters felt valued, and hikers grew closer to the Trail.

Learn more about how the you can honor NCTA volunteers for their service on and for the North Country National Scenic Trail, and submit a nomination at northcountrytrail.org/volunteer-awards.