Anderson Humane’s wildlife education programs offer hands-on learning
Anderson Humane is offering a lineup of immersive educational wildlife programs designed to inspire curiosity, foster environmental stewardship, and support local wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
These hands-on learning experiences offer opportunities for educators, students, and community groups to explore the importance of wildlife conservation while directly supporting the care of injured and orphaned animals.
“These educational programs provide an engaging way to connect with wildlife while highlighting their essential roles in our ecosystems,” said Stephanie Franczak, Wildlife Program Manager at Anderson Humane. “Interacting with ambassador animals like Isabelle the opossum and Wanda the groundhog helps break down misconceptions and leaves a lasting impact.”
Highlights of the educational program
Wild Encounter: Onsite & Virtual
Meet Isabelle the opossum and Wanda the groundhog, two ambassador animals who help tell the story of wildlife rehabilitation. Enjoy this expert-led program on-site or virtually, making it accessible for all ages interested in learning about animal behaviors and adaptations, ideal for science classes, nature clubs, and home-school groups.
Wildlife Nursery Tour: Onsite & Virtual (May—August)
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the care provided to orphaned wildlife, from baby raccoons to nestling birds. Experience this heartwarming journey in person or online, gaining insight into the dedication required to rehabilitate these young animals.
Wildlife Facility Tour: Onsite & Virtual (May—August)
Explore Anderson Humane’s high-volume wildlife rehabilitation center, where over 3,000 injured and orphaned animals receive care each year. Educators and students will gain insights into the rescue, treatment, and release process, making it a perfect addition to biology and environmental science curricula.
“Wildlife Rehabilitator for a Day”
This 4-hour, hands-on experience offers an individual, age 12 and up, the chance to assist with animal intake exams, diet preparation, and enrichment activities while learning about the science of wildlife care.
“Wildly Coexisting”
Designed for both classrooms and professional development, this program teaches humane strategies for coexisting with local wildlife, promoting community awareness and empathy toward wild animals.
“Wildlife Warriors: The Art of Healing Nature”
This one-hour presentation introduces audiences to the critical work of wildlife rehabilitation, exploring common causes of animal injuries and the recovery process and how wildlife centers like Anderson Humane contribute to conservation efforts.
“Tails and Tales: Wildlife Storytime”
Perfect for libraries and schools, this enchanting program brings conservation to life for children from pre-kindergarten and up. Featuring engaging stories about wildlife patients, children will explore themes of empathy, environmental stewardship, and the joys of helping wildlife. The program includes live or virtual interactions with our friendly ambassador animals, Isabelle the opossum and Wanda the groundhog. These gentle animals love saying hello to young kids and showing them what makes nature so special! The program will wrap up with a short Q&A to spark curiosity and expand learning opportunities.
Why participate?
By offering these educational experiences, Anderson Humane empowers educators to inspire the next generation of wildlife advocates while directly supporting the organization’s wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Each program fee contributes to the ongoing care and release of injured and orphaned wildlife, helping ensure a healthier environment for all.
For more information or to schedule a program, visit ahconnects.org/wildlifeeducation.
Join us in making a difference — through education, compassion, and action!
About Anderson Humane
Anderson Humane was founded in 1966, originally as Anderson Animal Shelter. For more than half a century we have been a place of refuge and second chances for thousands of animals and the people who love them. In March of 2020, we merged with Fox Valley Wildlife Center, Kane County’s largest wildlife rehabilitation. Domestic or Wildlife, we save lives! Our mission is to champion the welfare of animals and improve the lives of people through programs that create mutually beneficial human-animal connections, inspiring kindness and respect throughout our community.