Why every turtle deserves their day in the sun
Partnering with organizations to create meaningful, lasting connections with their audiences
A turtle enjoying some sun on a nearby log. Credit: Unsplash
I've always been fond of the adage that if you see a turtle sitting on a fence post, you know it had some help getting there. For me, it's a reminder that with the right opportunities and a helping hand at the right moment, any turtle can have its day in the sun. It's also the central reason that I decided to launch my own comms and community engagement shop earlier this spring.
With over 25 years of experience working in public affairs, I've had the opportunity to partner on projects with innovative community leaders, thinkers, and advocates in leading public, private, and nonprofit sector organizations, from Microsoft to Mercy Corps to Oregon Metro's Parks & Natural Areas Program. Over the years, I have successfully generated thousands of news stories in leading media outlets—from The New York Times and Wall Street Journal to NPR and CNN—and organized hundreds of events that have been instrumental in engaging thousands of people on critical policy debates.
Central to my work is an unwavering commitment to partnering with other talented communicators, creatives, community leaders, and advocates to drive innovative and integrated campaigns—utilizing traditional press and new media strategies and tools—that can effectively move hearts and minds, shape policy agendas, and shift public opinion. But as I've grown older, I've also come to appreciate having the ability to field a team of experienced communications and community engagement professionals is a luxury that too few mission driven organizations have.
Some of the most vital work in our communities happens at the grassroots level, often without access to professional communications support. That's why, in spring 2025, I launched Evergreen Insights, a Pacific Northwest-based social-benefit start-up centered around authentic communications, community engagement, and creative storytelling.
Good coffee (like good communications) can bring community together. Credit: Unsplash
Let’s Build Something Together
Everyone has a story to tell—especially nonprofits, foundations, local governments, and small businesses working to make a difference. And at Evergreen Insights, we're* dedicated to partnering with mission-driven organizations, meeting them where they are, and working together to create the comms and community engagement opportunities to help them get their needed day in the sun.
Want to talk through a potential project? Got a [communications] problem? Odds against you [in the media or online]? Drop me a line. I'd love to hear from you.
Burt Edwards is “reformed policy wonk” with 25+ years of experience designing and leading creative campaigns at the intersection of communications, advocacy, and community engagement. In his free time, he enjoys catching up with friends and family, listening to comedy podcasts, and exploring new restaurants and coffee shops around the PNW. He also has experience helping pond turtles get media exposure!
*PS. As a small start-up, people sometimes ask why I say "we" when talking about Evergreen Insight's work. I believe collaboration with community partners leads to the best outcomes. To put these values into practice, my goal as founder and owner is to team up with other independent consultants, freelance creatives, small businesses, and mission-aligned firms whenever possible.
This approach allows Evergreen Insights to extend its reach and impact. It also allows me to collaborate again with talented communicators, advocates, and organizers I have partnered with over the years.
PPS. I also would like to quickly thank all of those who helped and gave advice, helped brainstorm, served on informal focus groups on names, and workshopped structures concepts as developed and launched Evergreen Insights over the past year. I hope to share some insights I gained in launching a small business in a future blog.
