The Bridge to Wildlife Coexistence
By Cambria Wells, Education and Outreach Manager
CWC’s core mission to rehabilitate wildlife wouldn’t be possible without our incredible, compassionate community in the greater Los Angeles area. Angelenos live in close proximity to wildlife. We hear countless stories of the hummingbird on someone’s windowsill, the coyote that hops a back fence, and the sea lion pup they once passed on the beach. Many of the challenges these wild animals face can be changed by human activity, for better or for worse. Since January, CWC’s revitalized education and outreach program has reached over 10,000 individuals and has reintroduced them to their wild neighbors and inspired a sense of stewardship for nature.
Cambria Wells, Education and Outreach Manager, presents to a room full of campers
In the Spring, CWC staff picked up our custom-wrapped education van and began our collection of exhibits and activities. We have been embraced by our community and invited to a number of events including four schools, six Earth Day festivals and local markets. This high interest surrounding wildlife coexistence has continued into the summer with CWC staff and volunteers walking in the WeHo Pride Parade, visiting local libraries and traveling to over 20 Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Summer Camps spanning from East LA to the San Fernando Valley. The outpouring of support and interest in CWC’s educational workshops and presentations has been truly humbling.
We have been welcomed with open arms into communities who are eager to hear about our programs and how they can help. Sharing our love of nature, and the struggles of our patients, lays the foundation for a future where fewer animals need to be brought in for medical care. We love our patients but would love even more to see a future where the accidents that bring our patients to the hospital are no longer a concern. We know our supporters can help create that bright future. The Education team can’t wait to meet you!