BC Parks Foundation

Neighbours, Nature, and a $50,000 Gift: Leah and Rendal’s Backyard Legacy 

Leah and Rendal live in Kamloops, in a neighbourhood tucked against the forested slopes of Juniper Ridge. Most days, they walk their husky Lola along the trails just above their home, passing through quiet groves and open views where they often spot deer, owls, hawks, and, on occasion, a bear ambling in the distance. 

“I’ve always felt a deep connection to animals,” Leah says. “There’s something humbling about sharing space with creatures that have lived here long before us.”  

Leah’s love for wildlife began long before Juniper Ridge. She grew up on a tiny farm in Little Fort, surrounded by animals. As a child, she spent hours collecting frogs and salamanders. One of her earliest memories is a close encounter with a cougar when she was about six: “I knew what to do. I slowly backed up, and it was not a problem.” 

That moment sparked a lifelong awe for the natural world. Now, when Leah and Rendal hike with their dog, she says she’s never afraid of the wildlife they encounter. Every sighting brings her joy. “It just puts a smile on my face.” 

Backyard Legacy 

Living near Juniper Ridge means regularly sharing space with the area's wild residents and, for Leah and Rendal, their community is a daily reminder of the wilderness that surrounds them.  

When they saw a news story about the crowdfunding campaign to protect a piece of these cherished grasslands, they didn’t hesitate. “It’s our backyard wilderness oasis,” Rendal said. “Leah and I have always talked about doing something close to our home and with this great opportunity it was time to put some money up.” 

Their $50,000 donation to the Juniper Ridge campaign marks their first gift to BC Parks Foundation. 

After 36 years together and careers that took them across BC—from Fort St. John to Williams Lake to Prince George—Leah and Rendal have found joy and peace in sharing the wilderness. “Over the years we’ve worked hard, saved, and with the benefit of good investments we are fortunate to be able to give back to our community,” Rendal says. “What better way than to support something we use and love every day?” 

Their walks through Juniper Ridge feel a little different now. “There’s a bit of pride in knowing we helped keep this place wild,” says Rendal. “And it wasn’t just for us. It’s for our neighbours, and the wildlife, and the people who will enjoy this land after we’re gone.” 

You can join Leah and Rendal in helping to keep BC beautiful. Please consider donating today.