All Things Polar Societies and Charities: sign up and get involved
That you have navigated to this page means you have some level of interest in taking your polar or related interest(s) to the next level. Here’s your opportunity to take the next step. Pick an area of passion and jump in. Myriad options exist, from niche groups concerned with the preservation and remembrance of a particular person, item, structure(s), or issue, to well established environmental, geographical, or historical societies and charities. Some are specifically polar related while others pursue a broader theme, but have polar reaches in the work they do. No matter, choose one or several, and support the mission(s). Alternatively, become a member of one of the many institutions listed on the ATP Places page. Also, check out a similar listing that is a bit more focused on polar historical societies, at the Antarctic Circle.Canada
Inuit Circumpolar Council-TO strengthen unity among Inuit of the circumpolar region; promote Inuit rights and interests on an international level; develop and encourage long-term policies that safeguard the Arctic environment; seek full and active partnership in the political, economic, and social development of circumpolar regions, SINCE 1977. The organization represents about 180,000 Inuit in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Chukotka (Russia). Donations accepted.
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami-TO serve as a national voice protecting and advancing the rights and interests of Inuit in Canada, SINCE 1971. Donations accepted.
Polar Artist Society-TO promote awareness of the polar regions, and effects of climate change on the environment and people through art, education, and special projects, SINCE 2006. See The Arts for more information.
World Wildlife Fund-Arctic-the WWF, in addition to all of its great work the world over, has an Arctic component. WWF-Arctic publishes The Circle about the Arctic region, four times a year, or your can get their Arctic updates monthly. All are “free”, but the WWF requires our generous support to continue its work; please donate. Charity Navigator: three stars.
England
The James Caird Society-TO preserve the memory, honour the remarkable feats of discovery in the Antarctic and commend the outstanding qualities of leadership associated with the name of Sir Ernest Shackleton, KCVO (l874-l922), especially during the ill-fated but glorious Endurance Expedition, SINCE 1994. Membership (in 2020) for 3 years is £55 or US$110.. Typically they hold a spring and fall dinner event each year at Dulwich College, and author both an annual newsletter, and a journal, roughly every 18 months. The latter is more “meaty” and includes articles on more than just ‘the Boss’.
Polar Postal History Society of Great Britain-TO promote the general study of the Postal History of the Polar and Subpolar regions and to act as a medium whereby collectors of this material may correspond, exchange and acquire items for their collections and to obtain information about these areas, SINCE 1952. In addition to stamps, the society’s interests include polar themed postcards. Membership is in the mid 20 pound range/yr. (2020) depending on location and method of payment. You will receive their Polar Post newsletter delivered to your door four times a year. The society also holds a couple of auctions each year. Despite its small size of around 200 members, activities on the website appear robust..
British Antarctica Monument Trust-TO celebrate the achievements of the men and women whose scientific exploration in the British Antarctic Territory have led to a new understanding of our planet, and to honour those amongst them who did not return, SINCE 2008. The Trust is responsible for a unique set of memorials: one found at the Scott Polar Research Institute in Cambridge and the other next to the Falklands Museum in Stanley. The two monuments memorialize both the connection and the distance between the two locations, memorializing those who lost their lives in the Antarctic. See ATP Items for details. Donations accepted.
Royal Geographical Society-TO advance geography and support geographers in the UK and across the world, SINCE 1830. One of the oldest geographical societies in the world, this venerable organization has been at the heart of British polar exploration since the late 19th century. One of the oldest medals awarded for geographical work, the gold Patron’s and Founder’s Medals are awarded by RGS; their origins date back to an award by King William IV started in 1831: 50 guineas. See the ATP Medals page for a list of Gold Medal awardees who have made significant contributions in the areas of polar geography and science. England might not have become so enamored with all things Antarctic had Clement Markham, then secretary, not ginned up exploration of the continent to serve as a diversion away from a rift in the society during the last decade of the 19th century. Controversies existed as to whether women were capable of scientific achievement and deserved of recognition for work in the field. RGS first voted to admit women in 1892, but dissent led them to reverse their decision the next year. Markham brilliantly sought to take the discussion away from this hot topic, steering talk of succession towards energies more suited to the society (and his own interests): Antarctic exploration. RGS did reverse its decision to permanently admit women in 1913.
Now in modern times, and joined with the Institute of British Geographers, this worthy organization can be joined by anyone for 145 pounds/yr. Monday lectures (available online), a monthly copy of the Geographical magazine, and quarterly Bulletins are one’s rich reward.
The Captain Scott Society-TO commemorate the association of the City (Cardiff) with Scott's Last Expedition and to encourage the Spirit of Adventure that he inspired, SINCE 1982. Based in Cardiff UK. Contact the Membership Secretary for further information.
Captain Cook Society-To commemorate all things Cook, this society can be joined using any one of a number of currencies. The annual membership (2020) is 14 GB pounds or 23 US dollars, and entitles you to receive the society’s journal.
The South Georgia Association-TO encourage interest in, and concern for, the island of South Georgia; to encourage the study of South Georgia, and promote the conservation of its natural and cultural heritage; to promote contacts and encourage fellowship among those who have lived and worked in or around South Georgia, have visited or are interested in the Island, SINCE 2001. Located and run out of the Scott Polar Research Institute in Cambridge, membership (2020) is 15 pounds/yr. or 60/five years and includes access to events both in person and online.
United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust-TO preserve, enhance and promote British Antarctic heritage to engage, inform and inspire a global audience with a goal of conserving historic buildings and artefacts in Antarctica so that they might be enjoyed and learned from by current and future generations. A small charity, you can join with a membership (2020) of 25 GB pounds/yr, volunteer your time, help fund raise, or simply make a donation. A membership entitles you to two issues/yr. of the Antarctic Times, monthly email newsletters, and invitations to events in Cambridge.
Iceland
The Arctic Circle-TO promote international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. This organization, based in Reykjavík, is the world's foremost assembly for international cooperation on Arctic issues. Members of their Board represent most of the interested players in Arctic issues today. In addition, they have a number of strategic partnerships. The Circle holds a number of Assemblies and Forums throughout the year, often in conjunction with other organizations. You can also register to participate in virtual events. Join their email list for announcements of all of these opportunities. You can also subscribe or donate to the online publication Arctic Today, a partner of the Circle.
Netherlands
Greenpeace-(for people) TO take courageous action with us, individually in their daily lives, and in community with others who share our commitment to a better world, SINCE 1971. Though founded in Canada, Greenpeace International, based in Amsterdam, coordinates a network of semi-autonomous Greenpeace NGOs including Greenpeace USA and 26 other offices around the world. Its main goal is to protect our earth in myriad ways, including from climate change. Donations accepted.
Scotland
John Rae Society-TO advance the education of the public in the life and achievements of John Rae as the discoverer of the final navigable link of the Northwest Passage and one of the greatest arctic explorers. This Scottish charity can be joined (2020) for 15 GB pounds/yr. or you can simply make a donation. Much of their fundraising currently is to restore Rae’s birthplace, the Hall of Clestrain in Orphir, Orkney, Scotland.
South Georgia Heritage Trust-TO help efforts to conserve and protect those species of indigenous fauna and flora that breed and grow on South Georgia or in the surrounding seas; raise awareness of South Georgia’s threatened species; assist efforts to preserve the historical heritage of South Georgia, including selected historical sites of importance, and increase international awareness of the human history of the island through the South Georgia Museum, SINCE 2005. This is not a membership organization per se, but you can sign up for their newsletter. The SGHT, with its home office in Dundee’s Industrial Museum, is responsible for the South Georgia Museum. Donations accepted.
United States
American Society of Polar Philatelists-TO enjoy a common interest in the stamps, covers, and postal history of the north and south Polar Regions, SINCE 1956. Membership (2020) is $22-30 US depending on location. Their newsletter, Ice Cap News, is mailed out four times a year.
American Polar Society-TO support and encourage research and exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic, SINCE 1934. This all encompassing organization solicits explorers, scientists, and people like you and me: those with an interest in All Things Polar. Individual membership (2020) is $50 US/yr. and entitles you to receive the Polar News., published twice a year. Or simply send them a donation.
Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition-TO protect the Antarctic and Southern Ocean’s unique and vulnerable ecosystems by providing the unified voice of the NGO community, SINCE 1978. The organization focuses on three main areas: climate change and the Antarctic, Ross Sea preservation, and krill preservation. Donations kindly accepted. Charity Navigator Encompass rating: 75/100.
The Antarctican Society-TO promote multi-generational interest and education in all things Antarctic, SINCE 1960. This group, originally formed by members of the IGY 1957-58, solicits anyone with an interest in the Antarctica, whether scientist, amateur, or traveller. Their motto: “by and for all Antarcticans”. Membership can be had (2020) for $13-25 US depending on location and desire for electronic vs. hard copy of their newsletter.
National Geographic Society-TO use the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world, SINCE 1888. NGS makies grants in all areas of science and exploration. They funded Peary’s expedition to the North pole in 1909, and supported his claim of success for many years. They subsequently supported further investigations into the legitimacy of Peary’s claim, one that will likely never be resolved with 100 percent certainty . The first verified overland reach to the North Pole without resupply was led by NGS explorer emeritus Will Steger, in 1986.. Past and present awardees of the NGS now top 13,000 and they actively support over 200 explorers around the globe. You can make a donation to support their many worthy projects from their web page or subscribe to their publication. Charity Navigator Encompass Rating: 100/100.
Old Antarctica Explorers Association-TO to keep the Antarctic experiences and memories alive, SINCE 2001. Regular membership requires having spent time on the continent or aboard a vessel in Antarctic waters, while Associate membership solicits anyone with an Antarctic interest. Annual membership (2020) is $10 US/yr. The association publishes the Explorer’s Gazette newsletter four times/yr. Charity Navigator: not rated.
World War Zero-TO enlist to build forward into a clear-skied future, to engage the naysayers with an all-out communications blitz to neutralize disinformation and redefine the narrative to be about job growth, national security, and eliminating pollution, and to mobilize by empowering the global community with innovative tools and solutions that conserve the planet and create the prosperous future we all deserve, SINCE 2019. Formed by former Senator and Secretary of State John Kerry, and located in Chattanooga TN, this vital organization’s is fighting climate change which undeniably has a large impact on all things in polar regions. Charity Navigator: not rated as too new. Donate generously.
Friends of the Earth-TO change the perception of the public, media, and policymakers — and effect policy change — with hard-hitting, well-reasoned policy analysis and advocacy campaigns that describe what needs to be done, rather than what is seen as politically feasible or politically correct, SINCE 1973. This progressive organization located in Washington D.C. tackles issues such as climate and energy, democracy, finance and economic systems, food and agriculture, forests, and oceans. Though their work is not directly related to polar projects, the many indirect effects are clear. Charity Navigator: four stars. Donations accepted.
Natural Resources Defense Council- TO safeguard the earth - its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends, SINCE 1970. Another broad environmental organization, located in New York, doing excellent work in the areas of climate change, energy, oceans, the wilds, and water, to name a few areas. Charity Navigator: four star. Please give.
Environmental Defense Fund-TO create lasting solutions to our biggest environmental challenges, SINCE 1967. Another powerhouse environmental organization located in New York, focusing on climate, energy, ecosystems, oceans, and health. Direct effects of their work on polar ecosystems and climate are obvious. Charity Navigator: four stars. Donate, and become a member.
The Arctic Institute-TO research and engage in the many dimensions of Arctic security in order to reach a full understanding of the complicated and interconnected challenges facing the region today, their work covers military, economic, social, political, cultural, and environmental issues, SINCE. This organization, run out of the Center for Circumpolar Security Studies, tackles complex multinational issues facing the Arctic. They offer a weekly newsletter. Charity Navigator: not rated. Donations accepted.
Friends of South Georgia Island-TO restore South Georgia’s environment and preserve its history, SINCE . The Friends, based out of Colorado, work closely with the South Georgia Heritage Trust. They have been involved in habitat restoration projects, necessary rodent eradication to restore ecological balances, an albatross research project, and several heritage projects. Support the preservation of South Georgia. Charity Navigator Encompass Rating: 75/100.
Greenpeace USA-one of the many independent Greenpeace organizations around the world, all doing good work under the umbrella of Greenpeace. This branch is located in Washington DC. One of their projects is “saving the Arctic”. Give generously or jump in and volunteer. Charity Navigator: not rated. Also see the related Greenpeace Fund who share some Board members with Greenpeace USA. Charity Navigator: three stars.
New Zealand
Antarctica Heritage Trust-TO conserve, share and encourage the spirit of exploration the Trust cares for the remarkable expedition bases of early Antarctic explorers including, Carsten Borchgrevink, Captain Robert Falcon Scott, Sir Ernest Shackleton and Sir Edmund Hillary; It shares the legacy of exploration through outreach programmes and encourages the spirit of exploration through expeditions to engage and inspire a new generation, SINCE 1987. This critical organization preserves and maintains the valuable bases mentioned above that are of tremendous historic importance and value. Their work is invaluable. Please donate to preserve the historic structures they maintain.