ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTERS OF CONNECTICUT INC
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Mission Statement
A private, non-profit Environmental Education & Conservation organization dedicated to inspiring an appreciation and enjoyment of nature, fostering a healthy environment and an improved quality of life.
About This Cause
Environmental Learning Centers of CT's Mission is to: “Inspire the appreciation and enjoyment of nature, through education and conservation, fostering a healthy environment and an improved quality of life”. For over 40 years, ELCCT has achieved its mission by offering a diversity of hands-on experiential programs using a variety of resources and facilities. Our programs are offered at the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center, Indian Rock Nature Preserve, and in the schools of Connecticut. In 2016, we provided our environmental educational programs to over 22,000 children and families from over 70 Connecticut communities! In addition to our education programs, ELCCT also serves as a land trust and has protected over 760 acres of land in Bristol, Burlington and Southington, Connecticut. In addition to nature programming, Indian Rock Nature Preserve has a significant Colonial Life and Native American programs. The trails and facilities, including two authentic wig wams, provide the perfect setting for people of all ages to learn about our natural and historic heritage. This, coupled with a demonstration farm with an apple orchard, flock of sheep, a cow, chickens and turkeys, provides school groups, scout troops and families the opportunity to learn about early American life and the rich history right here in Bristol, CT. The crown jewel of IRNP is the Fuller F. Barnes Education Center. This two-level, 12,000 square-foot facility was opened in 2010 and features a Great Room, two classrooms, two workshops/labs and a 130-foot deck overlooking beautiful Indian Lake, the focal point for IRNP’s Summer Camp. The FBEC makes a perfect venue for private functions, conferences and meeting. The Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center was built in 1972 and additional property was acquired in 1974 increasing the property to its current 68 acres. The original goal of the nature center, and one that continues today, was to be a community center where people of all ages learned about the importance of the natural world. A place that was open to the public on a regular basis with exhibits and activities facilitated by a knowledgeable cadre of staff and volunteers; and a place that inspired conservation and the love of nature. Live reptiles, amphibians and birds of prey and many hands-on educational activities welcome and amaze all who come venture inside the visitor center. A series of hiking trails outside are open 365 days a year, dawn to dusk. Over the years, we have learned that people, particularly children, spend less and less time outdoors and have not developed a true affinity for the natural world. We aim to fill this void by providing outdoor experiences through school programs, summer camp and public programs geared for both children and adults that ignite curiosity and teach about the wonders of nature.