Wander the Wild an Immense Success to Benefit Area Children
The Highlands Center for Natural History
1375 S Walker Road, Prescott AZ
928-776-9550 www.highlandscenter.org
The Highlands Center for Natural History celebrated its 10th annual Wander the Wild fundraiser on September 23 at the Windmill House in Chino Valley. This annual event raises money to support youth education programs at the Center, specifically funding scholarships for area schools to attend field trips at our Lynx Creek site.
A sellout crowd of 200 guests enjoyed an outdoor reception, lively auction and delicious meal prepared by the Windmill House staff. The live auction featured outdoor-related travel and adventure packages, educational field trips and nature inspired works of art by local artists. With local, regional, national and international destinations, the auction offered something for everyone: including a week in a Tuscan Villa or at a South African photo safari, strolling Central American Pacific beaches, or sailing the Caribbean.
The highlight of the auction occurred as guests voluntarily agreed to adopt or subsidize a classroom of students to visit the Center for a day of outdoor education and nature-based activities. Over 60 classrooms were directly adopted by generous donors. The event cleared over $100,000 to support the youth education programs of the Center. “Because of this event, the Highlands Center will not turn away any school or individual child from our educational programs due to lack of financial resources”, stated event Chairperson Lesley Alward.
Lamb Chevrolet was the presenting sponsor and Ron and Laura James served as honorary Chairpersons. Other Sustaining Corporate sponsors included Taylor & Padgett Wealth & Legacy Strategies, Molly Day Auman – Broker Associate of Garden Brook Realty, Foothills Bank, The Riggs Team of Guild Mortgage and Olsen’s for Healthy Animals.
The Highlands Center for Natural History
Formed in 1996, the Highlands Center for Natural History is a non-profit organization developed to foster an appreciation for and knowledge of the natural wonders of the Central Highlands of Arizona. The Highlands Center is a regional hub for lifelong learning, designed to invite discovery of the wonders of nature through on and offsite programs and includes an inviting venue for community events. Supported by contributions from individuals, corporations, foundations and community partners.
Visit www.highlandscenter.org for more information.