Giving: It Matters.

Let us take a moment to express our sincere appreciation for your support to transform Wesselman Woods this year. Your contributions have played a pivotal role in the successes we have achieved together. You are bringing Wesselman Woods into a new era!

Your continued support is essential to keep this momentum going.

Every donation made from now until the end of this year will be MATCHED up to $25,000

Double YOUR impact when you donate today.

It Matters to Ben.

Wesselman Woods is without a doubt one of Evansville’s greatest assets.

With increased accessibility, more residents can now enjoy the peace and serenity of woods unlike anywhere else in our region. It’s projects like these that make me proud of our community.

As you explore the largest urban old-growth forest in the United States, you will notice many positive changes that have taken place, thanks to your advocacy and generosity:

  • Accessible Trails: With the backing of the Alcoa Foundation and AARP, you can walk newly elevated boardwalk trails on the Southwest and Mini-loop sections, providing better accessibility for all abilities.

  • New Maple Sugar Shack: Support from the City of Evansville Endowment Foundation led to the creation of a larger, more interactive space for you to learn about the maple syrup making process.

  • Increased Presence at Howell Wetlands: Your voice was heard. You asked for more involvement at Howell Wetlands and it led to a stronger staff and program presence there. You may have also noticed better maintained trails and open amenities during work hours.

It matters to the forest.

With only a quick glance, the forest may seem sleepy but don’t let its serene facade fool you. This forest is FULL of life. Wesselman Woods is home to over 55 different tree species that provide the necessary food and shelter to hundreds of species of plants and animals.

  • Environmental Mural: Guests of Wesselman Woods and Wesselman Park have been treated to watching the progress of a mural in the Nature Center parking lot. The artwork features native Indiana species of flora and fauna, meaning the mural will increase the beauty of our entrance and also serve as an educational piece.

  • The Arwood Family Treehouse: After years of planning and fundraising, we will breathe new life into the Welborn Baptist Foundation Nature Playscape with a brand-new treehouse. Construction begins this winter! We have these generous donors to thank for bringing this idea to life: the Arwood Family, CenterPoint Foundation, Crescent Cresline Wabash Plastics Foundation, Tom Magan, Old National Bank, and many other philanthropic friends of Wesselman Woods.

  • Reforestation: Our efforts will include transferring DNA from our old-growth trees and introducing climate-smart plantings—this novel approach is not only monumental for our region but for our nation. YOU are a part of this history. Together, we have the opportunity to combat climate change at the local level.

It matters to the Wheeler Family.

We’ve been attending Little Eco-Scholars since my son turned two. We love being at Wesselman Woods, so I knew this program would be perfect. A few of our favorite things have been making natural art, learning about forest critters, and making new friends. I love seeing my son explore and learn.

Whether it’s volunteering, financial support, or planned giving—it matters.

It matters to you, the planet, and everything on it... this year, next year, in 10 years, and beyond. NOW is the time to radically increase your environmental and ecological presence. Your gift is critical.

Thanks to a generous donor, every donation made until the end of this year will be MATCHED up to $25,000

This will effectively double YOUR impact and bring us closer to our $50,000 goal to kick off our 2024 projects. $50 becomes $100. $100 becomes $200. $250 becomes $500.

Your support enables us to uphold our mission of preserving and protecting Wesselman Woods and Howell Wetlands. Your commitment is a vital step toward environmental, ecological, and social transformations.

I invite you to be part of the solution we need today by giving $50, $100, or $250 to keep our mission alive.

With gratitude,

Zach Garcia

Executive Director at Wesselman Woods

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