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EVERGLADES OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

Flamingo Gardens is building a multipurpose Everglades Outdoor Classroom that will offer opportunities for visitors of varying abilities to enjoy the sights and senses of Flamingo Gardens!

GIVE

The Classroom will feature:

  • A sensory garden for those who are visually impaired
  • A safe, quiet learning area for those in need of a quieter environment
  • An easily accessible classroom for those with mobility limitations
  • An outdoor classroom where children can learn the difference between a pollinator host plant and a nectar plant and learn how to propagate plants
  • An outdoor extension of adult and children’s classes held in the Learning Center

The Everglades Outdoor Classroom will be located in the location of the old Childrens’ Playground, just east of the Welcome Center. The project will include:

  • Leveling and clearing the land, and trimming trees
  • Repairing sidewalks to improve accessibility
  • Replacing soil and adding new ground materials
  • Adding overhead sail coverings
  • Building a 20’ x 20’ Chickee Hut with lighting and fans
  • Establishing raised beds for planters
  • Adding rain barrels, compost bins, and other eco-learning components.
  • Interpretive signage for the blind and differently abled.

Flamingo Gardens has a long history of providing customized educational experiences for groups like the Lighthouse of Broward, Deliver the Dream, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and others through our Community Access Days. Now we want to build a specialized outdoor garden classroom to help facilitate that experience.

“Flamingo Gardens opened their doors to our clients…with a sensory experience that was developed for our unique group. This opportunity was life changing. Flamingo Gardens has demonstrated a commitment to serving underrepresented groups in our community. It has been our pleasure to work with them.”

– Samantha Kelly, VP of Programs, Lighthouse of Broward

“The opportunity to bring families facing serious illness, disability or crisis to the Gardens is a true blessing to many who would not otherwise be able to afford to enjoy all that Flamingo Gardens has to offer.” 

– Maureen Kohler, Executive Director of Deliver The Dream

“We feel accepted here. The kids can each participate at their own pace.”

– Cherdeline P.

“This is the 3rd Year we have taken part in this [Community Access Day.] We enjoy the different activities and having a place that is welcoming and accepting.”

– Leanna C.

Thank You Donors!

Donors that give $1000 or more will be recognized on a Donor Recognition Plaque

Jan and Lazaro Amador
Roseanne Belsito and Jeff
Trotta
Drew Cariaso and Erich Veitenheimer
Juliana and Eric Collazo

Sandra Fernandes

Mary Hickling
Larry Hill
Lakeside Foundation
Gennaro Selvaggi and Rocio Martine
Ramasamy and Easwari Nathan
Theresa and Todd Wandstrat.

Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Outdoor Fund
Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation