Welcome to Dove Tales, a monthly e-blast to our most ardent PVNC supporters. Here you’ll find links to upcoming programs, volunteer and membership news, and updates on projects. We hope this provides the resources you need to stay informed and engaged!

Director's Note

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the beauty that nature generously bestows upon us. Whether it's the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, the vibrant hues of a sunset painting the sky above Lake Galena, or the soothing sound of bluebirds singing in the meadow, nature provides us with moments of awe and inspiration.

We're fortunate to not only been blessed with the beauty of nature that surrounds us, but also the community of people that supports PVNC. Staff, Board of Directors, members, volunteers, donors, and community partners have come together to educate visitors, protect and maintain our natural resources, and improve the visitor experience. A shining example of this collaboration is the recent design and installation of our new Nature Play Zone (NPZ). Located along the Evergreen Trail a short distance from the main parking lot, the NPZ started with a small grant from Foundations Community Partnership. This "seed" quickly grew, bringing together a community of donors and volunteers, that allowed the project to blossom beyond our imagination. You can learn more about the NPZ can be found below. We are extremely grateful for the roles our community members have and continue to play in all of our successes. 

It is with mixed emotions that I share the news that two members of our PVNC team have decided to pursue new opportunities. Office Manager Erin Ferich and EE Director Karissa Elser each made significant contributions to our team, and we are grateful for their dedication, hard work, and the positive impact they've had. Please join me in extending our heartfelt thanks to Erin and Karissa for their hard work and dedication to the Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center. Their presence will be missed, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors. We have no doubt that they will excel in their new roles.

Starting Dec. 5^th, Jenn Bilger will serve as our new Environmental Education Manager. Jenn comes to us with a rich background in EE, volunteer, and summer camp management. On the administrative side, Geri Sykes, will continue to serve as the interim Office Manager. Geri has a diverse skillset and she's been working hard behind the scenes to support the organization and staff. I hope you'll join me in welcoming our new team members!

We hope you include a visit to PVNC this holiday season. Be sure to check out our calendar for upcoming programs and events, and stop in to check out our selection of gifts and the art/photography show that's on exhibit. The nature center will be closed 11/23 & 11/24 but our trails are open dawn to dusk so remember to #OptOutside on Black Friday. 

See you on the trails,

Kelly Joslin

Director - Naturalist

Nature Discovery Day - Give Thanks to Nature

Saturday, Nov. 25th, Noon - 3pm

Drop in and discover a variety of nature-themed activities the entire family will enjoy. Discovery Day is a family-friendly, free event where young explorers, ages 3 – 12, learn about a unique nature topic though self-guided activities and explorations. This month's theme is all about being thankful for the nature that surrounds us. No registration required. Donations kindly accepted.

ART IN NATURE 

Our annual photography exhibit and sale is going on now at the nature center. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Friends of PVNC so stop by and get a head start on your holiday shopping!

MEMBERSHIP NOTES

Membership and donations for the Friends of PVNC provide funds for our environmental education program mission. We are fortunate to have a community that provides financial and volunteer support and look forward to your continued participation!

Welcome New & Returning Members!

DONOR RECOGNITION

                                                    Photo by Kirstyn Gudknecht

Click Here to see a list of those who provided financial support last month.