Julia McHugh

Team Member at the United Spirit Nature Network (USNN), dedicated to advancing holistic environmental stewardship through the integration of Indigenous knowledge, community collaboration, and sustainable practices.

Julia McHugh at United Spirit Nature Network

Grants Coordinator

Julia McHugh


Julia is the Funding Coordinator at United Spirit Nature Network (USNN), an environmental nonprofit dedicated to sustainability, biodiversity, and strengthening the connection between people and nature. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Queen’s University, where she was a member of the Environmental Science Student Council. There, she developed key skills in grant writing, donor engagement, and project coordination — skills she now brings to her work at USNN to support and grow impactful environmental programs.

Julia’s commitment to ecological stewardship began with volunteer expeditions to South Africa and Central America during high school, where she witnessed firsthand the importance of community-led conservation. She later worked as an arborist’s assistant, gaining valuable trade experience and a practical understanding of urban biodiversity and habitat protection. Her diverse background allows her to approach funding coordination with both strategic insight and a grounded understanding of environmental work on the ground.

At USNN, Julia is focused on building strong partnerships with funders, educators, and grassroots organizations to advance projects that protect ecosystems, promote environmental education, and reconnect communities with nature. As a passionate outdoorsperson, she draws continuous inspiration from the natural world and believes that collaboration, curiosity, and shared values are the keys to lasting environmental change.


Join Us in Preserving Nature

Our Mission

USNN’s mission is to empower Indigenous communities and allies to protect, preserve, and sustainably manage natural resources. We strive to achieve this through collaborative initiatives that prioritize cultural integrity, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. By bridging Indigenous leadership with innovative environmental solutions, USNN aims to create lasting impacts that benefit both current and future generations.

Our Vision

USNN envisions a future where Indigenous wisdom and environmental stewardship guide global sustainable development, fostering a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.

Through Nature Conservation and Indigenous Collaboration

These core pillars define our approach, blending community leadership, sustainability, Indigenous wisdom, and advocacy to protect and preserve our natural world.

Indigenous spirit and holistic application

Incorporating Indigenous wisdom and holistic practices into all our environmental efforts.

Nature Advocacy

Advocating for policies and actions that preserve and protect natural ecosystems.

Community-Driven Initiatives

Empowering communities to lead in environmental stewardship through collaboration and collective action.

Building capacity in nature, sustainability, and conservation

Providing the tools and knowledge needed to protect and sustain our natural resources.