Our biggest achievement for the year is that the Welcome & Discovery Center construction is now complete. We were also successful in completing our Phase 1 fundraising goals for the building furnishings ahead of schedule. The phase 1 exhibits are currently being built and will be installed with the grand opening set for early 2021.

The building is architecturally stunning perched above the tree line, with raw cypress ceilings, molded pillars that resemble mangrove roots, walls of glass and two buildings wired for state of the art learning – one an exhibit hall with environmental exhibits, the other a community room for lectures and meetings.

This facility is set to become a landmark in the area and will be home to education and discovery for learners of all ages:

• The education committee has designed collaborative learning experiences for local classes and visitors.
• A monthly series of lectures and activities to educate and inspire.
• Exhibits designed for multi-generational learning.
• FOLKS hosted fundraisers, music, and cultural events.

But we still need your help. We have a Phase 2 and 3 for exhibit components and furnishings that we were not able to complete due to COVID-19 slowing down our fundraising efforts. We also need money for our inaugural year of programs and lectures to get the programs off the ground. There are several ways for you to help:

• Become a general donor and give to FOLKS and we will use the money where it is most needed.
• Donate to the capital campaign fund through a general donation or ask about naming recognition or naming rights for exhibit components.
• Become an event sponsor and have your name branded on that event to help us raise money.
• Become a member of FOLKS. We are having a sale on Lifetime memberships for $1,000 until March 31, 2021. (Regular price is $1,500).
• Volunteer to help us in 2021

This year has taught us many things, one is that there is great beauty and solace to be found in nature. Now, more than ever, we need to take refuge in the fresh, open air. Also, as we have had to redefine what a classroom is, we have learned that experiential learning is a powerful way to learn. Especially lessons such as teamwork, compromise, and science concepts.  We believe that our building and our goals of teaching stewardship and promoting experiential learning are valuable and timely and will play an important role in future conservation and education for our region.  We hope you share that vision and give today to help us keep the mission alive.

So, thank you so much for being a supporter of FOLKS and Lovers Key State Park. We hope 2021 brings us all good health and we invite you to come and experience the new Welcome & Discovery Center!