Campus Schedule
New Year's Eve and New Year's Day
Our indoor spaces will be closed, but the campus will be open to enjoy the grounds.
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The ELC is open 7 days a week
Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 5 PM
Sat-Sun: 8 AM - 4 PM
Just think of the ELC as an extension of your own backyard!
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January Greetings from ELC |
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2021 was spent sprucing up our campus and providing a myriad of ways for people to connect with the natural world. Campus projects included pressure cleaning, painting, boardwalk/stairs/roof replacements and the renovation of our Discovery Station/aquarium area flooring.
Our kayak and canoe rental program and pontoon trips are flourishing, as is our homeschool Lagoon Academy program and our Little Wonders (toddler Mommy and Me in nature) program. Our Friday outdoor yoga and daily Qigong classes got underway again. Our summer camps were sold out and the kids and interns had a blast with our hands on/feet wet education. Our educators visited the school district after school programs nearly every day in the fall to provide enrichment activities. Our Members-only guided nature walks have become a big hit. Be sure to reserve your spot at our monthly outings Here. Our WinterGreen Night Lights events provided a wonderful and safe way for our community to gather to celebrate the holiday season with over 1,000 magical canoe trips through the mangrove lit tunnels.
In 2022, we eagerly look forward to the grand opening of the magnificent addition to our campus, the Thomas R. Schidel Education and Event Pavilion on March 26 at our annual gala “Restoration”, followed by our LagoonFest community event on March 27. There’s still time to become a sponsor for this amazing event that you will not want to miss! Click Here For More Info. To get a taste of what the event will be like please RSVP for the complementary prelude event on January 29 hosted by our event sponsor at the Vero Beach Outlets Here.
Our third and fourth grade field trips will run January through May and we are super excited to have the school kids back! We are fully underway with seasonal programming including our nature art series meet and greet cocktail events, our jungle trail bike tours, and the launch of our new and exciting Eco-Action society. This is a free group that you want to join if you want to commit to ongoing personal growth as an environmental Steward. Each month we will be hosting learning opportunities so that you can be in the know about our most pressing environmental issues and how we can all be part of the solution. RSVP here for the first session on January 19th 5:30-6:30 PM at the ELC. Light refreshments provided. RSVP Here. I will be doing a presentation on the importance of the human/nature connection, discussing what ELC does to foster that connection, a review of the top global environmental issues and an overview of our lagoon health challenges and solutions. We hope you will make it your New Year’s resolution to be a better, more knowledgeable and empowered friend to our planet.
Thank you for your generous support that makes our work possible. Cheers to a healthy and connected 2022 for us all!
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Barbara Schlitt Ford
Executive Director
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The Time Is Now
Our Annual Campaign is underway. We need your support to continue our mission to educate, inspire and empower all people to be active stewards of the environment and their own well-being.
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Annual Report
Please take a moment to read our Annual Report, which showcases our accomplishments and our plans for the future.
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RESTORATION
Environmental Learning Center Annual Fundraising Gala
and Thomas R. Schidel Education & Event Pavilion Unveiling
Saturday, March 26th, 2022 | 7 - 10 PM
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Event Features
> VIP Pre-Party
> Red Carpet Photo Experience
> Paella Presentation
> Live DJ
> Professional Dance Performances
> Live Art & Auction
> Dessert & Champagne
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A One-of-a-Kind Immersive Experience
Presented by the ELC in Partnership with FW Productions
For more information, contact: Sue@DiscoverELC.org
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Thank You To Our Event Sponsors |
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Doug & Lesia Graybill
Christopher & Penny Saridakis
Robert & Kathleen Prindiville
The Kahle Foundation
Brian & Cricket Mullaney
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Joan Edwards
James & Virginia Sourbeer
Chris and Keena Clifford
David & Leslie Prothro
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Thomas & Donna Spackman
Tim & Carol Buhl
John & Susan Daniels
Robert & Carol Lincoln
Fred & Peggy Marino
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RESTORATION Prelude at Vero Beach Outlets
January 29th from 6 - 9 PM
Come join The Environmental Learning Center and FW Productions for another spectacular fun-filled evening of exquisite cuisine, entertainment and music by
surprise DJ Cardi
RSVP's are requested but not required. To RSVP and for sponsorship and ticket information contact: Sue Harr; Sue@DiscoverELC.org or call 772-589-5050
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A New Adult Program Series
The goal of the Eco-Action Society is to encourage local residents to commit to learning about the environmental issues facing our planet and to make an earnest effort to model earth-friendly behavior within their spheres of influence. We will host monthly meetings, each centered on a different topic, that can involve any combination of the following: documentary screenings, presentations from guest speakers, hands on activities, field trips, etc. We want participants to leave these meetings with knowledge gained about environmental issues and inspiration on how they can immediately take action on a local scale. Eco-Action Society meetings will generally be at no cost to participants, but there may be small fees for optional follow-up activities and field-trips.
The first meeting will be January 19th from 5:30 - 6:30 PM. Light refreshments will be provided and ELC Executive Director Barbara Schlitt Ford will be doing a presentation on the importance of the human/nature connection, discussing what ELC does to foster that connection, a review of the top global environmental issues and an overview of our lagoon health challenges and solutions.
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Lagoon Academy Homeschool Classes |
Tuesdays (1/4, 1/11, 1/18, 1/25)
or Thursdays (1/6, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27)
10 AM - 12 PM
Ages 7-12
Join us in our investigation of plants this month! We will hike around in search of different seeds and leaves. We will conduct experiments to see how plants absorb nutrients and release oxygen. We will play games and do fun art projects to learn about their adaptations.
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Wednesday, January 19th
10:00 - 11:30 AM | 12:00 - 1:30 PM
A free nature enrichment and early literacy program for children 18 months to 4 years old and their caretakers featuring interactive story time, nature, arts, crafts, and so much more!
Next program: February 16
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Young Entrepreneurs Market |
Saturday, January 8th
10 AM - 2 PM
Shop local and support a group of dynamic and inspiring youth who create a wide variety of super cool products.
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Wildest Night of the Year!
Primitive Camping & Kayaking
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Adventure Scale: 8-9
December 31st to January 2nd
St. Sebastian River Preserve
New Year, New Moon, New You Celebration.
This is a guided, deep dive experience to explore your own inner landscape as we simultaneously cultivate a deep, abiding connection with the natural world.
Includes primitive camping 101, pristine habitat hiking, zero moon dark nights, nature immersion and meditations, bonfire Reiki, kayaking on the St. Sebastian River, and Word of the Year workshop.
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Awaken the Wild
Primitive Camping & Kayaking
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Adventure Scale: 7-8
January 16th to January 18th
St. Sebastian River Preserve
The preserve is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and has been identified as one of the top birding locations in the United States. Other wildlife viewing includes deer, coyote, bobcat, wild turkey, quail, and gopher tortoises.
Includes primitive camping 101, pristine habitat hiking, midnight meditation, bonfire Reiki, kayaking on the St. Sebastian River, and Word of the Year workshop.
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Future Wellness in the Wild Dates:
- Feb 12th-Mar 12th - A Land Remembered Book Study Group
- Feb 15th-17th - Galentine's Island Camping & Kayaking
- Mar 18th-19th - Full Moon Glamping & Kayaking Retreat
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January 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th
1 - 2 PM
Get grounded with a practice for your mind, body and spirit. This class is suitable for beginners.
$15 Per Person | Members 10% Off
Discounted 1 Month Class bundle available
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Beginners Qigong
Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat
9 - 10 AM
Intermediate Qigong & Thai Chi
Tue & Thurs
9 - 10 AM
$15 Per Person | First Class Free
Members 10% Off
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Walking Meditation in the Butterfly Garden |
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Sunday, January 23rd at 11 AM
Walking meditation is a 'meditation in motion,' great for beginners. It's a practice that is all about being aware of our bodies as we move and being present. If our daily lives are about 'going to' or 'coming from' a walking meditation is simply about being here, happy to be alive! We'll attune to nature through our five senses in the embrace of the Butterfly Garden.
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Guided Tours & Excursions |
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Enjoy a 2 hour guided cruise along the Indian River Lagoon. Learn about the inhabitants of the lagoon and mangrove forests along the way. Visit the Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge or join us on the Sebastian River for a scenic Manatee Spotting trip.
Pontoon boat is wheelchair accessible.
Private pontoon boat reservations available - great for groups, parties, and retreats.
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Daily kayak and canoe rentals and tours available!
Call for availability - (772) 589-5050
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Bike Tours on Historic Jungle Trail |
Friday, January 7th 10 AM - 12 PM
Saturday, January 22nd 3:30 - 5:30 PM
$15 Adults & Children age 13 and up
$10 Children ages 8 - 12 and under
10% Off for ELC Members
Join us for a comfortably paced eight mile tour of the historic Jungle trail that includes several interpretive spots where you will learn about the history of the Jungle Trail, Capt. Forster's Preserve, and more. Minimum age 8 years old. Bring your bike!
Tour starts and ends at Captain Forster's
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Members-Only Walk at Environmental Learning Center |
Wednesday, January 26th
8 - 10 AM
The ELC members-only Walk on Wednesday will start the season with a field trip through the beautiful campus of the Environmental Learning Center. This 64 acre property is a great example of successful habitat restoration where we will draw connections between mangrove forest, salt marsh and coastal hammock.
Meet at Entry Pavilion at Environmental Learning Center
Bring binoculars, water and mosquito spray
February Location: Wabasso Scrub on February 23rd.
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This month's Nature Nook Spotlight item is:
Jabebo Earrings
Stop by our Nature Nook Eco-Boutique to select from a wide-variety of eco-friendly earrings made right here in the United States. Each pair is made from recycled cereal boxes and the company’s goal is to promote science and nature education. Grab a set of Zebra Long-wing earrings, then take a stroll through our Butterfly garden to catch a glimpse of one in-person! We are open 7 days a week, Monday – Friday 8am-5pm and
Saturday – Sunday 8am-4pm.
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January & February Artist Showcase
Lagoon Room Featured Artist: Shotsi Cain Lajoie
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Tidal Gallery Featured Artist: Judy Burgarella |
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Stroll our two galleries featuring amazing art that educates and inspires.
Galleries will be on display through February.
Artist Meet and Greet will be held February 16th, 2022
from 4:30 - 6:30 PM
All artwork is available for purchase and make great gifts for the art lover in your life!
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Quail Valley Charities Kid's Fun Zone
1-mile Run & 5k Walk/Run
Saturday, January 8th, 2022 at 7:30 a.m.
The morning is filled with music, bounce houses, face painting, and much more!
50/50 Raffle Tickets are available for sale in our Nature Nook. $100 per ticket. Raffles include hotel stays, travel packages, high-end accessories and home goods, and more!
Contact Nancy@DiscoverELC.org to participate on our ELC team free of charge.
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We hosted our annual WinterGreen Night Lights event in December. It was amazing having the community come out to enjoy our canoe rides, s'mores, crafts, music and holiday lights. We hope you can join us next year! |
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2022 Windsor Charity Polo Cup Raffle Tickets
to Benefit the ELC
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The Environmental Learning Center is thrilled to have been chosen as a co-beneficiary of the Windsor Polo event on February 22nd. Windsor is a premier, internationally known residential enclave and we are so proud to be working with these special neighbors. They embrace their role as stewards of this unique ecosystem. We look forward to an impactful and long-lasting partnership with this local treasure.
In support, the ELC has 2022 Windsor Charity Polo Cup Raffle Tickets for sale in our Nature Nook. Tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100. Prizes include:
- Paul Morelli One-of-a-Kind Dragonfly Necklace value $23,000
- Givenchy Mini Antigona Vertical Leather Crossbody Bag value $1,780
- Two Elite Airways Round-Trip Tickets from Newark to Vero Beach value $1,150
- J. McLaughlin Shopping Spree value $1,000
- ELC Membership and Event Package $650 - Includes 2 Tickets to 3/26 Restoration Gala, 4 Tickets to 3/27 LagoonFest and 1 Annual Family Membership
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Dementia Experience
Stop by the ELC for this free event!
Hosted by The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC
February 16th and 18th - 9 AM - 3 PM
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Help Keep Our Water Clean |
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Is your medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no longer use? What’s safe for you might be harmful to others and to the environment. Scientists have found hormones, antibiotics and other drugs in fish, shellfish and dolphin in the Indian River Lagoon. The best way to dispose of your expired, unwanted, or unused medicines is through a drug take back program.
Publix has just announced convenient drug disposal kiosks! Please visit this site to learn more. Local Publix kiosk locations include:
- 12th Street Plaza 1255 U.S. Highway 1, Vero Beach
- Indian River 9621 N. U.S. Highway 1, Sebastian
- Indian River Shops of Sebastian 1451 Sebastian Blvd. Sebastian
- Indian River Treasure Coast Plaza 415 21st Street, Vero Beach
The Publix website indicates "Feel free to drop off old, expired, or unused medications in our drug disposal kiosks at select Publix pharmacies. Keep your family, community, and our water supply safe by letting us dispose of responsibly.
Illegal drugs, controlled substances, thermometers, inhalers, lotions/liquids, aerosol cans, needles, and hydrogen peroxide are NOT accepted."
Please consider this safe and easy method of drug disposal and forward this message to family, friends, and neighbors.
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Join Us!
Interested in Volunteering with the Environmental Learning Center?
Reach out to Volunteer Coordinator
Nancy Puglio at
Nancy@DiscoverELC.org
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Volunteer Opportunities & Training
- We will be revamping our Green Teen program for 2022. We are looking for some volunteer help for our Green Teen Leadership Council. We are planning an organizational meeting on Sat., 2/12/22 11-12:30. We will work on designing the program, discuss the responsibilities and discuss the communication necessary for reaching teens. There will be a monthly Saturday meeting (during the school year) along with some prep work/teacher and participant communication required. This is open to teen volunteers willing to take on a leadership role as well as adult volunteers The hope is to have several adult volunteers participate to cover when volunteers travel etc. Please let me know if you are interested
- We will participate in the Quail Valley Fun Run Sat., 1/8/22 starting at 8:30 from Quail Valley River Club. ELC is a beneficiary, please let me know if you’d like to participate
- We will have a Splash 3 (3rd grade program) Orientation 12-1:30 Thursday, 1/6 followed by a Volunteer Orientation 2-2:45. The Orientation will cover a little history, organization and logistic information. If you haven’t told me already and plan to participate please let me know. If you’d like more details please ask away. Feel free to attend just to get an idea of what the program involves. We need LOTS of volunteers to help over the Jan. and Feb. program. Most volunteers do a day a week but even if you can only do a day or two we welcome the help.
- We will participate in GardenFest at Riverside Park in Vero Beach Sat., Feb. 5 9 AM-5 PM and Sun., Feb. 6 9 AM-4 PM. We need volunteer help to cover the ELC table. We will do Sat. shifts of 8:45-11:45 AM, 11:45 AM-2:45 PM or 2:45-5 PM. Sunday shifts will be 8:45-11 AM, 11 AM-1:30 PM or 1:30-4 PM. It is a fun event with lots of interesting merchandise, speakers and information. Please let me know if you can help and what shift works for you
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Please record your volunteer hours at the following link: Volunteer Hour Submission Form When we apply for grants we are often asked for a record of hours volunteers have committed to ELC
- We are looking for adult or teen volunteers to help with the Young Entrepreneurs Market at ELC the first Saturday of every month 10-2 PM. They would like someone to help with set up/take down and possibly offer an activity. If you’re interested please let me know at Nancy@DiscoverELC.org or 772-589-5050 x107
- There is a Members Only walk open to all volunteers at ELC:
01/26/2022 at 8 AM
Environmental Learning Center campus field trip
The ELC members-only Walk on Wednesday will start the season with a special field trip through the beautiful campus of the Environmental Learning Center. This 64 acre property is a great example of successful habitat restoration where we will draw connections between mangrove forest, salt marsh and coastal hammock. Please bring water and proper sun protection. We will start at the picnic tables under the Discovery Station.
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Thank you all for all you do! |
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Our mission is to educate, inspire and empower all people to be active stewards of the environment and their own well-being.
Thank you for the many ways you support our critical mission.
We simply couldn’t do it without you!
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Archie S. Wingfield Jr. Charitable Trust |
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Richard and Laura McDermott |
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William and Laurie Stewart
Jim and Virginia Sourbeer
Alice and Ronald Hall
Dale Sorensen Real Estate
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Hair by Talia
Robert and Margaret Martin
Mr. Robin Dunlap
Bob and Joan Peirce
Donald and Pamela Barr
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Please click and like/follow us on social media and invite your friends to like us as well! It’s the best way to keep up with our ever-changing happenings. |
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