Thank You All for an Inspiring Open House
Last Sunday was a great day. It’s not often one is treated to looks of wonder and excitement on the faces of hundreds of people, especially children. But that’s precisely what the nearly 700 people in attendance delivered at WRC’s annual Open House.
As a wildlife hospital we can’t share with the public an actual look at the wonderful work that goes beyond the front counter. Our patients are highly stressed and, with a goal of eventual release back to the wild, they must retain their wariness of predators to survive. Our permits from both DNR and US Fish and Wildlife also prohibit the public display of animals.
But our annual Open House gives people a chance to see first-hand our state-of-art medical facility, and a chance to experience the process of examination, treatment and rehabilitation that every patient undergoes – from the standpoint of a unique species: the stuffed animal.
WRC is an extraordinary organization that enriches the lives of many people and wild animals. Our Open House is a microcosm of that; blending the best elements of our mission, values and vision together for an inspiring afternoon.
Board members, staff, volunteers, vet students all pitched in to share their passion and conviction. It was at once exhilarating and satisfying to see the wide smiles of appreciation and hear the words of thanks and encouragement. There were also moments of profound emotion and inspiration while talking with people who had brought patients to us in the past. It’s just flat out difficult to adequately describe the visceral feelings of the day.
Our thanks to all the volunteers who helped prepare for the event and who made the day successful. And a heartfelt thank-you to all the people who attended and made the day so memorable. We can’t thank you enough for supporting this wonderful enterprise.