I am Ann Keeler Evans, an Investigative Poet, and I am setting out on a journey across the Northern United States with a friend during the month of June. Our goal is to encounter the Peoples, Lands, Skies, and Waters of this country, asking questions that explore gratitude, hope, dreams, community, and legacy as Americans. As we celebrate the 250th year of the United States, I want to understand what makes people grateful to be American, what they hope for our future, and what parts of our shared life and culture they are proud to help build or repair. I will be asking: What are your dreams for every American? What gives you hope right now? How would you like to be remembered as an American Ancestor?

This journey is a pilgrimage, a field study, a friendship journey, a love letter, and a lament. It is an opportunity to listen deeply, witness the beauty and complexity of our country, and turn those encounters into words that others can experience. The funds raised will support my travel, help me write and share stories and poems, and enable me to publish and publicize a book that reflects the voices and visions of people across the country.

Sponsor the Journey. This journey will cover about 5,500 miles across the Northern United States. You can sponsor 1 mile, 10 miles, 50 miles, 100 miles, or more—every mile helps carry this Investigative Poet across the country. Your support helps us sleep safely under the northern skies, provides nourishment and noticing, and fuels the creation of the Field Book. Each mile sponsored is a step toward gathering stories, poems, and reflections that honor the voices and visions of people across America.

Your generosity will help me witness, listen, write, and return with stories and poems worthy of our United States on its 250th Anniversary. I would be honored to have your support as I travel and create.