Rising to the Challenge

In October 2024, David Junga tested his stamina and resolve when he ventured into the rugged wilderness of Maine for the Can You Survive? challenge. But this was more than a personal adventure — Junga represented New England Forestry Foundation (NEFF), and championed and fundraised for sustainable forestry.

Junga discovered the challenge and charity event through social media. He was drawn to the competition as a lifelong fan of the TV show Survivor and a former host of a podcast about the show.

“Not only did I want to see if I had what it took to win, but I wanted to compete for a cause I cared deeply about,” Junga said.

Growing up in coastal Connecticut, David’s love for nature began in the forested backyard of his childhood home. This passion guided him to earn a Master’s degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois, where he conducted research on floodplain forest restoration, focusing on understory species that fill ecological gaps in restored forests. Now, as a STEM educator, he inspires students to think critically about the environment.

“If I’m lucky, I’ll even inspire them to advocate for it themselves,” he shared.

The Can You Survive? challenge combined exhilaration and exhaustion. With fond memories of summers spent in Maine, Junga felt at ease with the survival elements — like sleeping outdoors and foraging for food — but found puzzles more challenging. “If I could do it all over again, I’d approach them with more confidence,” he admitted.

Choosing NEFF as his charity was an easy decision. While in graduate school, Junga came across a Journal of Forestry article highlighting NEFF’s conservation work.

“What stood out to me most were NEFF’s commitments to conservation, education, and addressing the staggering amounts of CO2 in our atmosphere,” he said. “As a New England native, supporting local forests felt especially meaningful.”

Junga’s efforts came at a critical time. With climate change accelerating, sustainable forestry is essential.

“Forests are vital,” he emphasized. “They sequester carbon, protect biodiversity, and maintain ecosystem balance. By ensuring responsible management, we’re preserving these resources for future generations while addressing today’s global crises.”

For Junga, giving back is a daily practice, whether through research, teaching, or competing in social strategy games to raise funds. “It’s imperative to take action in whatever way you can,” he said.

Through Can You Survive?, Junga highlighted how individual passion and determination can amplify the impact of private philanthropy. His journey underscores the urgency of sustainable forestry and the pivotal role organizations like NEFF play in ensuring a healthier planet.