Wild About Wildlife launches Nature Renaissance with $20,000 match

Wild About Wildlife has launched Nature Renaissance, a South Florida conservation campaign anchored by a $20,000 matching gift and a fall appearance by author Richard Louv in West Palm Beach. The initiative aims to raise funds for wildlife education, habitat work and outdoor programs across Palm Beach County and beyond. Why it matters: - Nature Renaissance is designed to raise money and build public support for conservation education, habitat restoration and hands-on outdoor access in South Florida. - The campaign ties fundraising to a larger effort to reconnect local families, students and educators with natural spaces. - The effort benefits the National Wildlife Refuge Association’s South Florida Urban Wildlife Refuge Project. What happened: - Wild About Wildlife announced Nature Renaissance on June 15, 2026. - The Palm Beach–based philanthropic initiative launched with a $20,000 matching gift from local philanthropist Rebecca Doane. - The campaign will culminate this fall with a Palm Beach County appearance by author Richard Louv. - Louv will headline a luncheon on October 12, 2026, at The Ben Hotel in West Palm Beach. - The event will include a keynote presentation, community conversation and book signing. The details: - Community members can help match Doane’s gift through August 26, 2026. - Funds raised will support conservation education programs, community partnerships and immersive outdoor experiences across the region. - Throughout the summer, Wild About Wildlife will continue supporting Refuge Association programs that connect students, families and educators with local ecosystems through habitat restoration and environmental activities. - Additional announcements will include 2027 award honorees, the introduction of WAW Advisors and Ambassadors, and an August luncheon featuring author and artist Deborah Pollack. - Pollack will present “Florida Sculptures and Their Wildlife” on August 26, 2026. - Event details, sponsorship opportunities and registration information are available at Wild About Wildlife or by email at wildaboutwildlife@refugeassociation.org. Between the lines: - The campaign pairs a matching-gift appeal with a marquee speaker to create urgency and visibility around the fundraising drive. - Richard Louv’s role connects the effort to a broader national conversation about children, nature and outdoor engagement. - The initiative also signals that Wild About Wildlife is using events and public programming to deepen its year-round conservation message, not just to fundraise. What’s next: - Supporters have until August 26, 2026, to help unlock the $20,000 match. - Wild About Wildlife will follow with more details on 2027 honorees, advisors and ambassadors. - The next public event on the calendar is the August 26 luncheon with Deborah Pollack, followed by Louv’s October 12 appearance.