Jim Brandenburg wasn’t just a collaborator with Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance; he was a dear friend and a relentless champion for the wolves he loved. We spent countless hours together—deep conversations that lifted us when we were down, moments of shared passion that shaped the course of our work. From the bold ‘Hunters Don’t Kill Wolves’ billboards to the transformative ‘Big, Not Bad’ project, Jim’s tireless dedication changed the way we see these majestic creatures.

Jim knew that no matter the latest wolf plan, breakthrough scientific study, or polarizing debate about hatred versus love, the real question remained: Is killing wolves moral? For him, protecting these animals wasn’t merely a policy—it was a profound moral imperative. His unwavering commitment makes it clear: Jim will always be on the right side of history.

Melissa Smith, Executive Director produced the animated short and wrote the script and Jim lend his voice to the narration that wolves are Big not Bad

In honoring Jim’s legacy, we carry forward his passion, his love, and his unyielding dedication to safeguarding the wolves he cherished so deeply. His spirit runs free with every wolf that roams under a moonlit sky. He made wolves big and not bad, turning fear into curiosity and adversity into forward-thinking change. So when you find yourself alone on a very cold night, snowshoes crunching underfoot, look up at the moon, remember Jim, and give it a howl in his honor.
As we continue the fight for what is moral and just, Jim’s vision remains our guiding star. His legacy is a call to action—a reminder that every day we have the power to shape the world by protecting what we hold dear. Jim, your spirit lives on, and you will always be on the right side of history.

Goodbye my Friend,

Say hello to blondie and blackie for us.

Consider a gift to the Jim Brandenburg Billboard Fund.