LEWISBURG — Wild Hearts African Farm officials announced last week the Henny Penny Employee Foundation (HPEF) has awarded the farm a $10,000 grant toward the construction of its new Education Center in Lewisburg.
The new Education Center, spanning multiple buildings, walking safari trails, and pastures set across 30 acres, will allow Wild Hearts to expand educational programming and foster a greater understanding of animal conservation and husbandry among visitors of all ages. New features will highlight animal nutrition and veterinary care, and will also include large picnic area and restrooms.
This grant will be put toward the last phase of construction for which Wild Hearts is currently fundraising.
“We are so grateful to the Henny Penny Employee Foundation for their support of our Education Center to help push us to the finish line,” said Amanda Badger, Founder and Director of Wild Hearts African Farm. “This grant will enable us to provide an unparalleled immersive learning experience which has a lasting impact on the way people perceive wildlife conservation, whether in Ohio or across the globe.”
Lester Wilder, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager of Henny Penny, explained why the company is proud to support organizations like Wild Hearts. “Our employees are dedicated to giving back to the community, and we are excited to see the positive impact our grant will have on Wild Hearts’ mission to educate the public and promote conservation,” he said.
The HPEF receives funding from Henny Penny employees and the Board is comprised of employees from all areas of the company. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations who offer programs and services in the areas in which their employees reside.
As the first Humane Certified zoo in Ohio, Wild Hearts African Farm is proud to offer this family-friendly Education Center in Preble County. Animals at the center include African wildlife such as ostrich, porcupine, tortoises, a sand cat, along with domesticated farm animals found on African ranches. Wild Hearts also provides a home to rescued native wildlife and currently cares for a bald eagle, hawks, owls and turtles. Visitors will have the opportunity to see these animals up close, while learning about the critical conservation work necessary to protect these species for future generations, according to Badger.
For more information about Wild Hearts African Farm, to book a field trip, or to plan a visit, visit www.wildheartsafricanfarm.org.
