Connect a child to Nature through a Week of Camp!

Greetings everyone,

Our summer season has come and gone in what feels like a blink of an eye. I can't believe it is over and hope you don't mind reminiscing with me! Gratitude is one of our core values here at Piedmont Wildlife Center. While gratitude is always a key component in all of our programming, it felt like the central theme of this summer... and I'll tell you why.

We were able to run ten weeks of camp out of three parks: Leigh Farm Park in Durham, Umstead State Park in Raleigh, and the newly renovated Blackwood Farm Park in Chapel Hill; we had nearly 1,200 spots filled in all of our camps, allowing us to connect hundreds of kids from around the Triangle to nature; and we had 59 seasonal staff members across all programming. These are just numbers, but to me, they illustrate the expanse of our programs, our nature connection, and our community. 

Something that is always on my mind is that there are experiences out in the world that are exclusive and inaccessible to those that can't afford it. Being able to explore and play in nature is something that should be a right to everyone, but that is not always the case. Having the opportunity to run through the woods, listen to the sounds of bugs and birds, and use your imagination is so valuable - especially living in an area that is getting more developed by the minute during a very digital-focused era.

This summer, we were able to award $2066 in scholarships, allowing 8 campers to experience the forests, creeks, ponds, swamps, fields, and wildlife of our parks. Each of these children were only able to come to camp thanks to the generous donations that you make. Because of you, they were able to connect with the outdoors and make lasting friendships. They were able to get dirty and experience the wonder of the natural world. Being able to watch every camper laugh, play, explore, and learn makes me so grateful for every single person that makes this experience possible - including you. Thank you for all that you do to help us provide programming to as many children as we can!