Wildlife Wonders on-site programs/tours
(by reservations only)
The idea: Wildlife Wonders wants to be able to provide a place for you to come enjoy His creation and learn more about His creatures. To be able to keep the learning and interaction at it's best Wildlife Wonders would only be open by reservation. The hope is to possibly bring in classrooms, church groups, private groups, special needs groups so that they can have an awesome experience. Start with a little walk around tour and learn more about the animals that live at Wildlife Wonders. Stop at the stage area to see the animals in "action" and touch a few of the favorites and top it all off with a walk through the petting area. Their would be pavilions outside of the compound for use for picnics and gatherings and even a nature/hike trail.
Many projects must be completed before this is possible. The Lord has provided a wonderful piece of property with a flowing creek, pasture area and forest. A lot of our animals already have wonderful enclosures that Tom has built, a lot of fencing is up But their is much more to be done. Public facilities need to be built, walkways, better roads, viewing areas, stage area, better bridges, handicap accessible areas, signs about the animals and lots of volunteers to make it all happen.
Would this take the place of our outreach programs? NO, we would continue to do outreach programs as we feel those are the founding aspect of Wildlife Wonders. The facility will not be open during the times that we are on the road. (Unless we find the "perfect angel" to stay at the facility while we are gone!)
That is why we would only open by reservations and would have a minimum fee which would be higher than a traditional zoo visit. Due to the one on one interaction and personal time.
Outreach Animal Presentations
(for children/families in need)
This is a vision that I pray with "catch" on. To sum it up. The hope is to be able to provide programs to areas, people, places that normally would not be able to "afford" our programs. Now you may wonder "why don't we just go for free?" Keep in mind that it takes over $150,000 yearly to keep Wildlife Wonders up and running. That is where you all come in. Their can be an outreach fund set up for those that want to donate a program to someone else or they want to simply donate for that cause. You may note who exactly you want the program donated to our donate for the general use of programs for those that cannot afford our programs. Our program cost are based on what we need to bring in each year to continue to run and provide for the critters.
Another aspect is using the animals as a witnessing tool. Bringing together talented teens and adults who would like to be involved with spreading the gospel and mix some wonderful animals with that and you have a wonderful tool for reaching others with the gospel.. Again all these wonderful ideas won't happen without you. Pray about it. See what your part in all this can be.
Other visions and ideas are dependant upon God's will!
Getting our non profit status: Anyone want to volunteer to do the paperwork!
Expanded Sponsorship program.
Expanded facility.: Hmm their is some wonderful land beside Wildlife Wonders.
Wildlife Wonders was founded after much prayer. We wanted to make sure this is what God wanted. As we continue to be blessed by others around us who have caught the vision we also continue to grow. Each step is a prayerful one. Is this what God would have? If so he will provide. Here at Wildlife Wonders we don't believe in allowing debt to pile up. The dreams and visions of Wildlife Wonders will come as He provides through His people. A lot of times people don't realize what a difference they can make. Have you seen a Wildlife Wonders program? If so you know. The look of wonder and awe on a child's face after seeing a Kangaroo for the first time or a child in a wheelchair grinning from ear to ear as he hugs a miniature horse. Whether it be financial contributions, land, supplies, or talent, you can make a difference. Have you thought about sponsoring a program in your area? What about for a lower income church or outreach project? One area that I pray will grow is being able to provide programs for those who may not be able to afford them.. more on that down below..
Thanks again for hearing me out as we continue this journey of life together in the grace of God.
Hope Bennett
Founder of Wildlife Wonders- Teaching on the "Wonders" of God's Creation