It is with a heavy heart that I must announce my leaving from Iowa IPL in just a few short weeks. I am moving to Boise, Idaho with my partner, Lucas, for him to begin medical school.
I cannot believe how quickly this year with Iowa IPL has gone, how much experience I have gained, and how many relationships I have grown. This position has exceeded all expectations for what a job could be. I have found a meaningful connection with my work, I feel like I am making a difference, and I am taking direct action against the climate crisis through media, events, and advocacy work. I feel the momentum behind the climate movement, and I feel the conversation continuing to build. Those my age and younger are pushing for climate legislation, those older than me are acknowledging change, and Iowans from rural farms to urban Des Moines are invested in bold and just action. It gives me hope.
I know Iowa IPL will continue to do incredible work after I leave. With the addition of a rural faith organizer, the fantastic Elston, three summer student leaders, and the return of Claira Miller, there is no question this organization is equipped to excel in the future and continue to open hearts and minds. I am excited to see future newsletters to stay up-to-date on events the staff plans and executes. You will all do great things!
Irene’s guidance and leadership as Iowa IPL’s executive director is unmatched, with her empathy and compassion the clear guiding light for this organization’s success. There is no question that she is my hardest goodbye. Thank you, Irene, from the bottom of my heart, for everything you have helped me with, for your kindness, for being the world’s best boss. You have made every work day enjoyable and become a true friend to me. As an organization of two for many months, she has tirelessly worked to interact with supporters, stay on top of her email, and still check in with my work and see how I am doing. A reminder to take that August retreat. You deserve it!
Thank you to the Iowa IPL board for your guidance and support, and all the kind words I have received throughout my time here. You all are wonderful environmental leaders and great people to know.
Thank you to Sonita and Ren at the Iowa Environmental Council for your wonderful friendship. You both feel like an extension of my job, with our shared work experiences at climate organizations and our many work/chat combos. I will miss you both dearly.
Thank you to Matt Russell for initially hiring me and all the support you have continued to provide even after leaving Iowa IPL. You laid the foundation for this nonprofit. Iowa IPL has so much to thank you for.
And thank you to Mara Bailey at Simpson College for originally sending me the job description for this position. None of this could have started without you.
Lastly, thank you to Iowa IPL’s donors and supporters for uplifting and believing in this organization. Without you, none of this would be possible. You make our work relevant, you help us expand our programs and staff, and you believe in the future of Iowa. Every donation, every social media share, and all participation at events is appreciated. Iowa IPL could not continue on without your support.
It is with a heavy, but full, heart that I leave Iowa IPL, better equipped to continue with climate justice work. I move forward with hope, with the lens of abundance for a brighter future, and the desire to continue to move others toward that same goal. I feel so much gratitude for every aspect of this job, and I know it will remain an integral part of my career journey forever. Thank you.
Alli’s last day will be Friday, July 8th. We invite you to send her well wishes on her new adventure by emailing her at: aparker@iowaipl.org, and, if you feel so inclined, to give in her honor.