August 2019 Philosophy Walk (Missoula/Huson): Reconnecting with Nature

We had a great time on our first Missoula county Philosophy Walk! Big thank you’s to the 9 Mile Community, Steve King, and Deborah Slicer and to the numerous community members, visitors from out of state (The Kramer clan!), and University of Montana students who came out to participate in the fun! Thank you also to Mother Nature for providing such a beautiful setting for our meandering. Led by 2019 Merlin Student Scholar Fellow & Philosopher, Henry Kramer, and Grants Manager & Humanitarian, Ryan Aikin, on this walk (a “spin-off” of our August Helena Philosophy Walk) we explored the importance of “reconnecting with nature” through the lens of phenomenology and animism. Access resources & photos here!

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August 2019 Philosophy Walk (Helena): Reconnecting with Nature

We were blown away by how amazing our August Philosophy Walk was…beautiful weather, wonderful people, great questions, and thought-provoking discussion led by 2019 Merlin Student Fellow & Philosopher, Henry Kramer, and Grants Manager & Humanitarian, Ryan Aikin. Our group of 17 — including 3 delightful young philosophers who joined us for the journey — enjoyed a lovely hike on the Waterline & Rodney Ridge Trails and explored “reconnecting with nature” through the lens of phenomenology, pragmatism, and animism. Access resources & photos here!

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$500 Awarded to Merlin from The Fanwood Foundation for their Philosophy in the Community Program(s)

We are so honored to receive an award from The Fanwood Foundation and to be recognized as playing an important part in the world of conservation, stewardship, education, and environmental leadership. Thank you so much, Sara & Tagge, for your belief in our organization and our efforts.  And thank you to Bob & Hopie for your friendship, mentorship, and continued inspiration (you are loved and missed).

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Philosophy Workshop: The Life of Virtue in Greek Philosophy (Summer 2019)

In this 3.5-hour “philosophy as a way of life”-inspired workshop led by special guest scholar & Philosophical Advisor for Merlin CCC, David Nowakowski, PhD we looked at what it might mean to live a life of virtue. Select readings and activities inspired by numerous ancient (and some contemporary) thinkers were examined and applied with the aim of introducing participants to a variety of philosophical perspectives on virtuous living and practical tools for living well. Access resources & photos here!

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July 2019 Philosophy Walk: Virtue & Hope

Our group enjoyed fantastic weather and a lovely hike up Dump Gulch Trail on our July Philosophy Walk.   Led by philosopher-on-trail David Nowakowski, we explored the life of virtue and hope…and a range of related questions that arose in the process of this informal, free-flowing discussion. Access resources & photos here!

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Reeder’s Alley Block Party Fundraiser Generates $4,686 Value for Philosophy in the Community & Reeder’s Alley

Our 2019 Reeder’s Alley Block Party fundraiser was a success (despite the persnickety weather)!  Thanks to the generosity and support of our sponsors and donors, and to everyone in the Helena community for coming out to partake in the fun, we were able to raise $4,686 value for philosophy in the community and Reeder’s Alley!

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2019 Reeder’s Alley Block Party Community Fundraiser Event

We had a great time hosting the 5th Annual Reeder’s Alley Block Party this year and are thankful that so many people came out to enjoy the festivities despite the persnickety weather!  A celebration of community & ideas (and, of course, one of Helena’s most beloved historic sites — Reeder’s Alley), our fun and festive block party fundraiser was dog-friendly, kid-friendly, fun for all ages. Check out photos, videos, and more here!

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