Imagine a Wildlife Center where our community can gather, learn, immerse in nature, and find lasting wonder.
Our Vision
The EON Wildlife Discovery Center
As our collection of animal ambassadors (and our audiences!) grow, we are excited to secure funding for a new wildlife discovery center. This facility will feature indoor and outdoor exhibits, classrooms, operational support rooms, and trails which includes stations that showcase Maryland's diverse habitats.
We plan to expand our team with dedicated professionals in environmental education, fostering an interactive learning environment. Additionally, the center will offer volunteer opportunities for community members to participate in various programs.
Through memberships, private donations, sponsorships, and special events, EON is committed to providing a unique wildlife experience that enriches the Maryland community and inspires future generations.
What will make our center unique?
Bridging the gap between a nature center and a zoo, our center will offer features that enhance learning.
More Than a Petting Zoo: While you will be able to interact with some animals, the focus will be on educational experiences that celebrate the wonders of wildlife.
Beyond a Traditional Museum: Our center will feature dynamic live animal displays and interactive programs, inviting visitors of all ages to deeply connect with nature.
Local Focus: We'll recreate the Mid-Atlantic’s diverse habitats and highlight local species, fostering a deeper connection to the region’s ecology.
Engaged Learning: Through innovative programming, we'll encourage critical thinking across subjects like science, math, literature, and art.
Community Outreach: We’ll continue offering off-site programs to extend our educational impact beyond the center.
Why It Matters
Environmental Literacy: Our center will promote sustainability and conservation education.
Support Educational Curriculums: We’ll align with state educational standards.
Increase Public Engagement: As a community hub, our center will draw visitors and encourage repeat attendance.
Support Wildlife Conservation: We’ll align with corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Foster Environmental Stewardship: Our programs will prepare future generations for environmental challenges.
Planned Features
Animal Housing: Dedicated spaces for our animal ambassadors, with indoor and outdoor enclosures.
Classrooms: Indoor and outdoor spaces for educational programs.
Exhibit Hall: Access to exhibits, critter encounters, and public programs.
Outdoor Exhibits: Natural habitats for animal ambassadors.
Gift Shop: A retail space for educational materials and souvenirs.
Walking Trails: Scenic paths for exploration and visitor enjoyment.
School Programs: Access to exhibits and reserved programs.
Camps: Summer and after-school nature camps for various age ranges.
Community Events: Space for family fun days, receptions, and more.
Support Our Vision
Why support our center? Your support contributes to community well-being and enhances environmental education and conservation.
Growing Eco-Tourism: Maryland’s eco-tourism industry is expected to grow by 20% in the next five years.
Demand for Environmental Education: There’s an increasing need for programs that teach environmental responsibility.
Job Creation & Community Investment: Our center will create jobs and invest in the local community, boosting local economic growth.
Potential for Grants and Sponsorships: We plan to seek state and federal grants and corporate sponsorships to support our mission which are currently not available to us.
Join us in creating a Wildlife Discovery Center that will serve as a hub for environmental education and conservation in Maryland. Together, we can inspire future generations to appreciate and protect the natural world.
