The Westlake-Bay Village Rotary Club recently presented a donation to the Lake Erie Nature & Science Center in Bay Village, Ohio, in support of its Wildlife Gardens Education and Renovation Project. Catherine Timko, Executive Director of the Center, was on hand to receive the check and provided Rotarians with an exclusive sneak peek at the ongoing work. The tour highlighted the exciting transformations underway, which aim to enhance visitor experiences and improve habitats for native wildlife.
A History of Collaboration
This donation continues the Rotary Club’s long-standing partnership with the Center. In 2005, the Club funded the creation of the Rotary Centennial Garden, a welcoming feature at the entrance that has become a symbol of community collaboration and environmental education. The Club’s ongoing support reflects its commitment to enriching local resources and fostering connections between people and nature.
Transforming Wildlife Experiences
The Wildlife Gardens Education and Renovation Project is a $1.9 million initiative designed to improve outdoor exhibits and rehabilitation structures. The upgrades will create more natural habitats for resident animals that cannot return to the wild due to permanent injuries. Visitors will enjoy closer encounters with these animals while learning about wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Community Impact
The Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offers free admission and serves over 100,000 visitors annually. Its programs inspire curiosity about the natural world through hands-on learning experiences with live animal ambassadors. The Wildlife Gardens renovations will further enhance these efforts by providing immersive environments that foster environmental stewardship.
A Shared Vision
The Westlake-Bay Village Rotary Club’s donation underscores its dedication to supporting initiatives that benefit both people and nature. By investing in projects like this one, the Club ensures that future generations can continue enjoying meaningful connections with wildlife while learning about conservation.
This partnership exemplifies how collaboration can positively impact communities and ecosystems.