Legacy of Truth Spotlight: Elsie Sorgenfrei

Before Elsie Sorgenfrei, dedicated Government Accountability Project supporter and environmental activist, passed away in May 2013, she had devoted decades of her life to saving streams and lakes in Washington State from deadly pesticides.

As a water conservationist, Elsie is credited with saving billions of gallons of water in her home state. She won the national Jefferson Award, which recognizes "ordinary people who do extraordinary things," in 2008 at the age of 85.

One of Elsie's most memorable projects was replacing a passenger seat in her van with a low-flow toilet and touring Washington State to educate people on the importance of water conservation. This campaign led to a unique nickname—"the Toilet Lady." Her grassroots lobbying efforts led to the state requiring that all new construction and remodeling include low-flow toilets.

Elsie also co-founded the Adopt-A-Stream Foundation and was water committee chairwoman for the League of Women Voters in her county. She believed strongly in staying active in the community and that anyone can make a difference.

To Government Accountability Project, Elsie contributed $1,575 during her lifetime. She also included us in her estate plans. Her gift will contribute to Government Accountability Project programs for approximately 14 years. Her environmental legacy, however, will last forever. We are proud to have known this gentle giant who so humbly referred to herself as "just an ordinary person."

If you would like to make Government Accountability Project part of your legacy, please contact Michael Termini at (202) 926-3321 or michaelt@whistleblower.org.