See a pdf (775kb) of this information.During the evening of Feb. 7th and all day Feb. 8th, 2019, at the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center in San Antonio, TX, the Texas Region will focus on the topic: "Nature Centers of the Future: What Role will we Play?". See the agenda here. Register here! Also, don't forget to share your success stories so that all present can benefit from what's working at your center.
Find out more about the ANCA Texas Region here.
LAST-MODIFIED:20190205T182051Z SEQUENCE:2340336 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:934 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20190412T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20190412T160000 UID:949D7499-D689-4CC5-B472-B51B2F48C6F7 SUMMARY:ANCA New England Region Meeting CREATED:20190123T214648Z DTSTAMP:20190123T214648Z URL:https://www.natctr.org/events/region-meetings/new-england-region DESCRIPTION:Save the date for the 2019 New England Region Meeting at Sharon Audubon Center in Sharon, CT. Topic:\NBuilding Community Engagement through Nature Centers, Erin Kelly, Boston Nature Center\NMass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center (BNC) is a unique wildlife sanctuary located in the heart of the city. In the twenty years since its inception, the BNC has grown into a bustling community-centered green space for both people and wildlife. In this workshop, we will discuss the four areas of BNC’s community engagement: Supportive Environment, Hospitality, Diversity/Inclusion/Equity, and Leadership. In small group work, we will share the successes and the challenges faced by all of our organizations and take a closer look at resources that can help build partnerships, evaluate the impact of engagement efforts and support organizational change. Deepening community engagement is a complex goal that requires thoughtful and individual solutions for each nature center, this important work is needed for environmental organizations to be sustainable and resilient in an ever-changing landscape.\NErin Kelly is the Education Manager at Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center with 18 years of leadership in outdoor environmental education and camp programming. She has designed programs to meet the needs of urban audiences in such diverse communities as Boston, New York City, and Los Angeles. Erin earned her B.S. in Environmental Science from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a M.S. in Environmental Education from Antioch University New England. At the Boston Nature Center, she directs popular nature camp programs that reach hundreds of families from all over Boston, coordinates year-round educational programs connected to Boston Public Schools, and supervises the center’s Youth Leader program.\NSee the full agenda here. RSVP to Eileen Fielding at Efielding@audubon.org. Check back here for more details in the future. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Save the date for the 2019 New England Region Meeting at Sharon Audubon Center in Sharon, CT. Topic:
Building Community Engagement through Nature Centers, Erin Kelly, Boston Nature Center
Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center (BNC) is a unique wildlife sanctuary located in the heart of the city. In the twenty years since its inception, the BNC has grown into a bustling community-centered green space for both people and wildlife. In this workshop, we will discuss the four areas of BNC’s community engagement: Supportive Environment, Hospitality, Diversity/Inclusion/Equity, and Leadership. In small group work, we will share the successes and the challenges faced by all of our organizations and take a closer look at resources that can help build partnerships, evaluate the impact of engagement efforts and support organizational change. Deepening community engagement is a complex goal that requires thoughtful and individual solutions for each nature center, this important work is needed for environmental organizations to be sustainable and resilient in an ever-changing landscape.
Erin Kelly is the Education Manager at Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center with 18 years of leadership in outdoor environmental education and camp programming. She has designed programs to meet the needs of urban audiences in such diverse communities as Boston, New York City, and Los Angeles. Erin earned her B.S. in Environmental Science from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a M.S. in Environmental Education from Antioch University New England. At the Boston Nature Center, she directs popular nature camp programs that reach hundreds of families from all over Boston, coordinates year-round educational programs connected to Boston Public Schools, and supervises the center’s Youth Leader program.
See the full agenda here. RSVP to Eileen Fielding at Efielding@audubon.org. Check back here for more details in the future.
LAST-MODIFIED:20190311T210443Z SEQUENCE:4058275 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1189 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20190520T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20190520T170000 UID:28289E0D-1FDC-4507-AC52-EB28B39F16E8 SUMMARY:ANCA Minnesota Region Meeting: Outreach Programming CREATED:20190415T190005Z DTSTAMP:20190415T190005Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/minnesota-region-meeting-outreach-programming DESCRIPTION:Join the gathering of ANCA-MN participants at Harriet Alexander Nature Center in Roseville, MN, to learn about ANCA, share upcoming events/projects, and participate in a facilitated discussion around Outreach Programming. Harriet Alexander Nature Center, 2520 Dale St N, Roseville, MN 55113 https://www.cityofroseville.com/183/Nature-Center. RSVP to Julie Grecian at jgrecian@smm.org. Find out more about the MN Region here. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Join the gathering of ANCA-MN participants at Harriet Alexander Nature Center in Roseville, MN, to learn about ANCA, share upcoming events/projects, and participate in a facilitated discussion around Outreach Programming. Harriet Alexander Nature Center, 2520 Dale St N, Roseville, MN 55113 https://www.cityofroseville.com/183/Nature-Center. RSVP to Julie Grecian at jgrecian@smm.org. Find out more about the MN Region here.
LAST-MODIFIED:20190424T205942Z SEQUENCE:784777 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:859 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20191011T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20191011T160000 UID:78FDE9D3-6EFA-4100-A208-0FF32BF8AAD3 SUMMARY:ANCA Michigan Regional Meeting — Dryden, MI CREATED:20190910T182745Z DTSTAMP:20190910T182745Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/anca-michigan-regional-meeting-dryden-mi DESCRIPTION:Seven Ponds Nature Center in Dryden, MI will host an ANCA regional meeting on Friday, October 11. Discussions and activities will include:\N\NKeynote on Seven Ponds Field Tours\NNaturalist-Led Trail Walk\NNaturalist-Led Canoe Trip (limited space)\NFacility and Behind the Scenes Tours\NNature Centers & Waste Reduction\NAdvocacy vs. Education\NLand Stewardship & Your Neighbors\N\NCoffee and a small breakfast snack selection will be available during check-in and networking, 9:30-10am. You can bring your own lunch or pay $12 for a meal provided by a local sandwich shop. Seven Ponds Nature Center is at 3854 Crawford Rd, Dryden, MI 48428.\NPlease direct questions to Daryl Bernard, Executive Director at 810-796-3200 or dbernard@sevenponds.org\N See a pdf (775kb) of this information. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Seven Ponds Nature Center in Dryden, MI will host an ANCA regional meeting on Friday, October 11. Discussions and activities will include:
Coffee and a small breakfast snack selection will be available during check-in and networking, 9:30-10am. You can bring your own lunch or pay $12 for a meal provided by a local sandwich shop. Seven Ponds Nature Center is at 3854 Crawford Rd, Dryden, MI 48428.
Please direct questions to Daryl Bernard, Executive Director at 810-796-3200 or dbernard@sevenponds.org
See a pdf (775kb) of this information.
The ANCA Minnesota Region will meet at the Warner Nature Center in Marine on St. Croix, MN, on December 9. Topics will include the Minnesota Salary Survey and planning 2020 Meeting Topics. The group will also hike at WNC, the last chance to do so before the nature center closes at the end of December.
Contact Julie Grecian at jgrecian@smm.org or call 651-433-2427 to register.
ANCA raffle winners at the 2019 Gale Woods Farm meeting
led by Mark Perry, Executive Director and Dr. Zack Jud, Director of Education, Florida Oceanographic Society
Meet at the Florida Oceanographic Society, 890 Northeast Ocean Blvd / Stuart, FL 34996. You are welcome to arrive early at 10AM for registration, refreshments and a self-guided tour of Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center. Spaces are limited!
Registration fee: $6 per person
Lunch is included, including a sandwich and wrap platters with vegetarian options.
View the full meeting agenda here (1mb pdf), and RSVP by 1/17/20 to Dr. Zack Jud at zjud@floridaocean.org
LAST-MODIFIED:20191218T225238Z SEQUENCE:419 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1000 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20200206 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20200208 UID:C17CB371-F4EA-40EC-B783-756D99C2C021 SUMMARY:Texas Region Meeting at the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center in Round Mountain, TX CREATED:20191021T143855Z DTSTAMP:20191021T143855Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/texas-region-meeting-at-the-westcove-outdoor-discovery-center-in-round-mountain-tx DESCRIPTION:The ANCA Texas Region will meet at the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center in Round Mountain, TX, February 6-7, 2020. Join us at the beautiful Westcave Preserve near Austin as we focus on the logistics of nature center facility management. Have you ever asked or been asked the following questions:\N\NWhat types of rentals do you do?\NHow much do you charge for rentals?\NDo you charge for photo shoots?\NWhat registration system do you use?\NDo you charge by the hour or the program?\NHow do you keep track of members?\NDo you have a store? Who are your vendors?\N\NIf you have found yourself asking any of these question, this meeting is for you. Contact Linda Dunn at ldunn@wetlandcenter.com or call 972-474-9100 to register. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
The ANCA Texas Region will meet at the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center in Round Mountain, TX, February 6-7, 2020. Join us at the beautiful Westcave Preserve near Austin as we focus on the logistics of nature center facility management. Have you ever asked or been asked the following questions:
If you have found yourself asking any of these question, this meeting is for you. Contact Linda Dunn at ldunn@wetlandcenter.com or call 972-474-9100 to register.
LAST-MODIFIED:20191024T115404Z SEQUENCE:249309 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1468 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20200402T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20200402T160000 UID:80D67EB0-B496-45D5-A084-5BBFF907EFC8 SUMMARY:ANCA Peer Meeting at Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary in Norfolk, MA (CANCELED) CREATED:20200311T181021Z DTSTAMP:20200311T181021Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/anca-peer-meeting-at-stony-brook-wildlife-sanctuary-in-norfolk-ma DESCRIPTION:This meeting has been canceled due to COVID-19 precautions. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:This meeting has been canceled due to COVID-19 precautions.
LAST-MODIFIED:20200312T195931Z SEQUENCE:92950 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:516 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20201118 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20201119 UID:40D86A13-8916-4FEB-9822-F83DED82C976 SUMMARY:Michigan Peer Meeting CREATED:20201027T165245Z DTSTAMP:20201027T165245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/michigan-peer-meeting DESCRIPTION:1pm ET\NAs 2020 begins to wind down, you are invited to join your Michigan nature center peers for a virtual get-together and discussion on how organizations have developed innovative solutions and pivoted with existing programs to meet their mission during COVID-19. This meeting will be hosted by Dennis Pilaske, Executive Director at Chippewa Nature Center, and James Dake, Education Director at Grass River Natural Area. If your organization made positive steps to innovate and pivot its program offerings, please plan to share them at the meeting — no idea is too small! If there are other open space topics you’d like to have your peers weigh in on, send those topics to Dennis Pilaske at dpilaske@chippewanaturecenter.org. This meeting is open to any professional in our nature center and environmental learning center community.\NThis meeting is free, and you don't need to be an ANCA member to join. Register in advance here. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:1pm ET
As 2020 begins to wind down, you are invited to join your Michigan nature center peers for a virtual get-together and discussion on how organizations have developed innovative solutions and pivoted with existing programs to meet their mission during COVID-19. This meeting will be hosted by Dennis Pilaske, Executive Director at Chippewa Nature Center, and James Dake, Education Director at Grass River Natural Area. If your organization made positive steps to innovate and pivot its program offerings, please plan to share them at the meeting — no idea is too small! If there are other open space topics you’d like to have your peers weigh in on, send those topics to Dennis Pilaske at dpilaske@chippewanaturecenter.org. This meeting is open to any professional in our nature center and environmental learning center community.
This meeting is free, and you don't need to be an ANCA member to join. Register in advance here.
LAST-MODIFIED:20201104T163322Z SEQUENCE:690037 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:355 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20201209 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20201210 UID:1D9EBC9E-E502-4677-AAF2-5181409BDC77 SUMMARY:ANCA New England & New York Peer Meeting — Planning for 2021 CREATED:20201201T161402Z DTSTAMP:20201201T161402Z URL:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUqfu-hpjkrEt0rtLUJKDKyAcgyAxf6Dba5 DESCRIPTION:Time: 4-5pm EST\N\NThe Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in centers throughout the Northeast (ME, MA, CT, RI, VT, NH, and NY).\N\NAs we come to the close of 2020, join in a facilitated discussion about the last 9 months and what is coming next on the horizon. \N\NSome questions we will discuss; Were you forced to make operational or programmatic changes this year that you might keep in 2021 and beyond? What are new practices that will become the norm? What silver linings can you eek out of this awful pandemic? Bring some of your thoughts, questions and challenges to share with the group.\N\NThis meeting will be hosted by ANCA Board Members Iain MacLeod, Executive Director at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center; Kitty Pochman, Executive Director at Linda Loring Nature Foundation; and Pam Musk, former Director of Centers and Education at the National Audubon Society.\N\NThis meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in New England and New York. Register here. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 4-5pm EST
The Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in centers throughout the Northeast (ME, MA, CT, RI, VT, NH, and NY).
As we come to the close of 2020, join in a facilitated discussion about the last 9 months and what is coming next on the horizon.
Some questions we will discuss; Were you forced to make operational or programmatic changes this year that you might keep in 2021 and beyond? What are new practices that will become the norm? What silver linings can you eek out of this awful pandemic? Bring some of your thoughts, questions and challenges to share with the group.
This meeting will be hosted by ANCA Board Members Iain MacLeod, Executive Director at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center; Kitty Pochman, Executive Director at Linda Loring Nature Foundation; and Pam Musk, former Director of Centers and Education at the National Audubon Society.
This meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in New England and New York. Register here.
LAST-MODIFIED:20201203T184404Z SEQUENCE:181802 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:375 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210107 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210108 UID:AA89FB9E-0538-4764-8410-C1DAEB90D123 SUMMARY:Michigan Peer Meeting — Summer Camps in 2021 CREATED:20201203T184251Z DTSTAMP:20201203T184251Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/michigan-peer-meeting-camps-in-2021 DESCRIPTION:Time: 1pm EST\NThe Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in centers throughout Michigan.\NFor many organizations, planning for the 2021 summer camp season means starting with many unknowns and questions due to the extended impact of COVID-19. Join us for this ANCA Peer meeting as we share discussion on many of these topics including capacity limits, changes to group size, overnight trip considerations, screening strategies, hiring and staff recruitment issues, and ideas for effective parent/camper communication.\NIf your center ran a successful camp program in 2020, we welcome you to share tips and tricks with those whose programs were closed last summer. While we cannot guarantee solutions for all of these questions, the goal is to encourage dialogue and provide an opportunity to build a network of camp administrators who can mutually support one another as we approach the camp season. Administrators are encouraged to have their camp directors attend.\NThis meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in Michigan.\NRegister Here X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 1pm EST
The Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in centers throughout Michigan.
For many organizations, planning for the 2021 summer camp season means starting with many unknowns and questions due to the extended impact of COVID-19. Join us for this ANCA Peer meeting as we share discussion on many of these topics including capacity limits, changes to group size, overnight trip considerations, screening strategies, hiring and staff recruitment issues, and ideas for effective parent/camper communication.
If your center ran a successful camp program in 2020, we welcome you to share tips and tricks with those whose programs were closed last summer. While we cannot guarantee solutions for all of these questions, the goal is to encourage dialogue and provide an opportunity to build a network of camp administrators who can mutually support one another as we approach the camp season. Administrators are encouraged to have their camp directors attend.
This meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in Michigan.
LAST-MODIFIED:20210111T213544Z SEQUENCE:3379973 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:456 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210202 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210203 UID:B8769CC0-018C-4AC9-9FD6-E4CC92C91BEF SUMMARY:Minnesota Peer Meeting: COVID Past-Present-Future CREATED:20210127T150954Z DTSTAMP:20210127T150954Z URL:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtdOqgqDsoGtGw_s0NA4SPnN1W7cJOhPZP DESCRIPTION:Time: 1:30-3pm CST\NThe Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in nature and environmental learning centers throughout Minnesota. Join your peers for a virtual get-together and a discussion on how organizations have developed innovative solutions and pivoted programs to meet their mission during COVID-19. If your organization made positive steps to innovate and pivot its program offerings and facilities, please plan to share them at the meeting.\NOur discussion will be focused on:\N\NCommunity access to sites and related risk management for staff, volunteers, and visitors.\NWe will discuss programs and processes that you have adapted to serve your visitors during COVID. What have been your successes and challenges? Which ones will you keep and which ones were temporary?\N\NIn the last 15 minutes, we will open up the discussion to other topics so please bring topics important to you.\NThis meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in Minnesota. You do not need to be an ANCA member but membership is always encouraged.\NRegister Here X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 1:30-3pm CST
The Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in nature and environmental learning centers throughout Minnesota. Join your peers for a virtual get-together and a discussion on how organizations have developed innovative solutions and pivoted programs to meet their mission during COVID-19. If your organization made positive steps to innovate and pivot its program offerings and facilities, please plan to share them at the meeting.
Our discussion will be focused on:
In the last 15 minutes, we will open up the discussion to other topics so please bring topics important to you.
This meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in Minnesota. You do not need to be an ANCA member but membership is always encouraged.
LAST-MODIFIED:20210127T151125Z SEQUENCE:91 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:235 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210212 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210213 UID:21392BB4-8FAE-4C2B-838A-AA357A178D5D SUMMARY:Florida Peer Meeting: Summer Day Camp Planning CREATED:20210111T214344Z DTSTAMP:20210111T214344Z URL:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0oc-qsqTwoGdXHq8B0OJSzgBkYsVt17oLz DESCRIPTION:Time: 1-2pm EST (Additional 15 minutes will be available to those who want to connect with others or for continued questions, comments)\NThe Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in nature and environmental learning centers throughout Florida.\NFor many organizations, planning for the 2021 summer camp season means starting with many unknowns and questions due to the extended impact of COVID-19. Join us for this ANCA Peer Meeting as we discuss many of these topics including capacity limits, changes to group size, overnight trip considerations, screening strategies, hiring and staff recruitment issues, and ideas for effective parent/camper communication.\NIf your center ran a successful camp program in 2020, we welcome you to share tips and tricks with those whose programs were closed last summer. While we cannot guarantee solutions for all of these questions, the goal is to encourage dialogue and provide an opportunity to build a network of camp administrators who can mutually support one another as we approach the camp season. Administrators are encouraged to have their camp directors attend.\NThis is hosted by ANCA Board Meeting, Chad Truxell, Marine Discovery Center and Leanne Welch, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center.\NThis meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in Florida. You do not need to be an ANCA member but membership is always encouraged.\NRegister Here X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 1-2pm EST (Additional 15 minutes will be available to those who want to connect with others or for continued questions, comments)
The Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) invites you to join your peers for a meeting designed for those who work in nature and environmental learning centers throughout Florida.
For many organizations, planning for the 2021 summer camp season means starting with many unknowns and questions due to the extended impact of COVID-19. Join us for this ANCA Peer Meeting as we discuss many of these topics including capacity limits, changes to group size, overnight trip considerations, screening strategies, hiring and staff recruitment issues, and ideas for effective parent/camper communication.
If your center ran a successful camp program in 2020, we welcome you to share tips and tricks with those whose programs were closed last summer. While we cannot guarantee solutions for all of these questions, the goal is to encourage dialogue and provide an opportunity to build a network of camp administrators who can mutually support one another as we approach the camp season. Administrators are encouraged to have their camp directors attend.
This is hosted by ANCA Board Meeting, Chad Truxell, Marine Discovery Center and Leanne Welch, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center.
This meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional in Florida. You do not need to be an ANCA member but membership is always encouraged.
LAST-MODIFIED:20210331T155514Z SEQUENCE:6804690 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:700 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210428 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210429 UID:8BA923EC-43C3-4564-AE8F-8A87AB886BC0 SUMMARY:Peer Meeting: Creative Solutions for Challenges at Governmental Centers CREATED:20210331T160328Z DTSTAMP:20210331T160328Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/pm-governmental DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NRegistration for this event has closed.\NDo you work for a nature center that's part of a city, county, state, federal or local government agency? Would you like to connect with other directors of governmental centers and brainstorm creative solutions to today's COVID challenges? If so, join us to discuss the challenges that are unique to governmental centers! \NThis session will be facilitated by ANCA Board Members, Vera Roberts, Director of Warner Park Nature Center in Nashville, Tennessee; Kristin Smith, Interpretive Programs Supervisor at Tualatin Hills Nature Center in Beaverton, Oregon; and Javier de Leon, Park Superintendent, Estero Llano Grande State Park & World Birding Center, Weslaco, TX.\NThis meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional; you do not need to be an ANCA member but membership is always encouraged. If you have questions, please contact ANCA Events Coordinator Sarah Reding, at events@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Do you work for a nature center that's part of a city, county, state, federal or local government agency? Would you like to connect with other directors of governmental centers and brainstorm creative solutions to today's COVID challenges? If so, join us to discuss the challenges that are unique to governmental centers!
This session will be facilitated by ANCA Board Members, Vera Roberts, Director of Warner Park Nature Center in Nashville, Tennessee; Kristin Smith, Interpretive Programs Supervisor at Tualatin Hills Nature Center in Beaverton, Oregon; and Javier de Leon, Park Superintendent, Estero Llano Grande State Park & World Birding Center, Weslaco, TX.
This meeting is open to any nature & environmental learning center professional; you do not need to be an ANCA member but membership is always encouraged. If you have questions, please contact ANCA Events Coordinator Sarah Reding, at events@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30pm AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Join your Peers for a 90-minute discussion all about Summer Camp! Are you moving forward with your Summer programs? Will they be in-person or virtual? What changes are you making to ensure the safety of your campers and your staff? Are you finding the resources you need? Join us for an Open Space discussion all about Camp.
We have created a Padlet for your questions, comments, and topic suggestions. Please visit the Padlet before the meeting and get the conservation started!
This meeting is open to any Summer Camp Leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
Have questions? Please contact ANCA Events Coordinator, Sarah Reding, at events@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20210511T185035Z SEQUENCE:539068 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:420 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210520 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210521 UID:B3AD7B19-EE73-4D22-BEDB-1159489CB575 SUMMARY:Peer CONNECTS: Residential Environmental Learning Centers CREATED:20210427T183037Z DTSTAMP:20210427T183037Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/relc-member-connects-2 DESCRIPTION:Time: 12-1:15pm AKT / 1-2:15pm PT / 2-3:15pm MT / 3-4:15pm CT / 4-5:15pm ET\NWe will CONNECT and host a 75-minute Open Space discussion. We will spend the first few minutes brainstorming topics and use Breakout Rooms to facilitate small group discussions. This is a great opportunity to join your peers from other residential facilities and share your challenges and successes.\NREGISTER HERE\NIn ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.\NThis meeting is open to any RELC leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.\NHave questions? Please contact ANCA Executive Director Jen Levy at jenlevy@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 12-1:15pm AKT / 1-2:15pm PT / 2-3:15pm MT / 3-4:15pm CT / 4-5:15pm ET
We will CONNECT and host a 75-minute Open Space discussion. We will spend the first few minutes brainstorming topics and use Breakout Rooms to facilitate small group discussions. This is a great opportunity to join your peers from other residential facilities and share your challenges and successes.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
This meeting is open to any RELC leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
Have questions? Please contact ANCA Executive Director Jen Levy at jenlevy@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30pm AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Join your Peers for a discussion all about Summer Camp! Are you moving forward with your Summer programs? Will they be in-person or virtual? What changes are you making to ensure the safety of your campers and your staff? Are you finding the resources you need? Join us for an Open Space discussion all about Camp.
This meeting is open to any Summer Camp leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We encourage you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
This is an encore of the same CONNECTS topic on May 18th.
Have questions? Please contact ANCA Events Coordinator, Sarah Reding, at events@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20210519T184553Z SEQUENCE:1229986 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:355 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210617 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210618 UID:82907396-6F4A-45FA-9422-1521364BFA41 SUMMARY:Peer CONNECTS: Residential Environmental Learning Centers CREATED:20210427T183243Z DTSTAMP:20210427T183243Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/relc-member-connects-3 DESCRIPTION:Time: 12-1:15pm AKT / 1-2:15pm PT / 2-3:15pm MT / 3-4:15pm CT / 4-5:15pm ET\NWe will CONNECT and host a 75-minute Open Space discussion. We will spend the first few minutes brainstorming topics and use Breakout Rooms to facilitate small group discussions. This is a great opportunity to join your peers from other residential facilities and share your challenges and successes.\NREGISTER HERE\NIn ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.\NThis meeting is open to any RELC leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.\NHave questions? Please contact ANCA Executive Director Jen Levy at jenlevy@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 12-1:15pm AKT / 1-2:15pm PT / 2-3:15pm MT / 3-4:15pm CT / 4-5:15pm ET
We will CONNECT and host a 75-minute Open Space discussion. We will spend the first few minutes brainstorming topics and use Breakout Rooms to facilitate small group discussions. This is a great opportunity to join your peers from other residential facilities and share your challenges and successes.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
This meeting is open to any RELC leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
Have questions? Please contact ANCA Executive Director Jen Levy at jenlevy@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Are you ready for your summer programs? Hiring more challenging than ever before? What changes have you made to ensure the safety of your campers and your staff? Are you finding the resources you need? Join us for an Open Space discussion all about camp.
This meeting is open to any Summer Camp Leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
Registration: $5
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together ANCA members and non-members who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Are you ready for your summer programs? Hiring more challenging than ever before? What changes have you made to ensure the safety of your campers and your staff? Are you finding the resources you need? Join us for an Open Space discussion all about camp.
This meeting is open to any Summer Camp Leader. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
Registration: $5
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together ANCA members and non-members who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
By definition, RELCs provide meals and lodging for program participants, but what makes for excellent food and facility experiences? If you manage dining experiences or facilities at an RELC or outdoor school, join us for this Open Space discussion where you can learn from peers about their practices and procedures. We’ll have breakout rooms for you to discuss specific topics, as well as a larger group conversation so that you can share questions, ideas, and resources.
Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.
Registration: ANCA members $5, non-members $10
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together ANCA members and non-members who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite attendees to participate in the discussion and bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
We have postponed this ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting, originally scheduled to be at Chippewa Nature Center on May 19. We will later announce a new date.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org.
Chippewa Nature Center's Visitor Center
Join your nature center peers for an in-person ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting at the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes in Cleveland, Ohio. This meeting is for any professional in the nature and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members along with professionals from outside Ohio to attend.
At this CONNECTS meeting you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face. Beyond programs, too, you will have the opportunity to visit and explore the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, seeing their operations firsthand.
Participants will be able to choose from an assortment of facilitated discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions.
Discussion topics currently include ADA-accessible trails, capital campaigns, and succession planning. If you have an idea for a discussion topic or would like to facilitate a conversation, please email ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org by September 21.
We look forward to gathering again in-person to connect and share ideas!
smartslider3[26]
ANCA’s priority in all meetings and events is the safety and welfare of our attendees, exhibitors, partners, and team. Therefore, ANCA will implement and follow all current recommendations and requirements related to COVID-19 from the CDC, State, and Local health departments. In addition, ANCA continuously monitors the science around COVID-19 and its variants and updates plans and protocols as needed.
Requirements
To attend and participate in an in-person ANCA event, you must:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have a question or topic you would like to discuss with your RELC and Outdoor School peers? Bring it to this Peer CONNECTS meeting. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.
If you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.
RELCs and Outdoor Schools share the unique challenges of housing and feeding students for multiple days. Anyone who is part of an RELC or Outdoor School, or who is interested in this particular field, is welcome to attend.
Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Summer Camp 2022 is over! What was successful? What was challenging? Where are the best camp resources? Join us for a discussion with other camp directors and staff to share successes, challenges, and celebrate Summer Camp!
This meeting is open to any Summer Camp Leader from both overnight and day-use programs. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA Peer CONNECTS.
For our discussion, we will use a Padlet bulletin board to gather ideas for topics and to share resources. The link will be sent to you when you register. We’ll use an Open Space format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics.
Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
We have canceled this ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting, originally scheduled to be at the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes on October 21. If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20221017T200458Z SEQUENCE:4245333 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:738 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221025 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221026 UID:4DBB7C9B-E073-4D71-877A-BCAF4AA10C32 SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: Residential Environmental Learning Centers (RELCs) CREATED:20220824T204701Z DTSTAMP:20220824T204701Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/relc-connects-10-22 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHave a question or topic you would like to discuss with your RELC and Outdoor School peers? Bring it to this Peer CONNECTS meeting. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.\NIf you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.\NRELCs and Outdoor Schools share the unique challenges of housing and feeding students for multiple days. Anyone who is part of an RELC or Outdoor School, or who is interested in this particular field, is welcome to attend.\NCost: $10 members, $15 non-members\NRegister here\N\NANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.\NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have a question or topic you would like to discuss with your RELC and Outdoor School peers? Bring it to this Peer CONNECTS meeting. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.
If you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.
RELCs and Outdoor Schools share the unique challenges of housing and feeding students for multiple days. Anyone who is part of an RELC or Outdoor School, or who is interested in this particular field, is welcome to attend.
Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Join your nature center peers for an in-person ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting at Chippewa Nature Center (CNC) in Midland, Mich. This meeting is for any professional in the nature and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members along with professionals from outside Michigan to attend.
Here you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face. Beyond programs, too, you will have the opportunity to visit and explore CNC, seeing their operations firsthand.
We look forward to gathering again in-person to connect and share ideas!
| 9:30-10am | Registration and Networking |
| 10am | Welcome |
| 10:15-11:45am | Sessions |
| 11:45am-12:45pm | Lunch and Networking Explore the Visitor Center, optional hikes |
| 12:45-1pm | State Policy and New Initiatives Update from Heart of the Lakes Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director of Heart of the Lakes, will provide an update on state level policy relevant to conservation and recreation, as well as provide details on a new urban conservation initiative. Heart of the Lakes is the collective voice for Michigan’s land conservancies and continues to build positive connections all sectors of the outdoor industry in Michigan. |
| 1-2:30pm | Sessions |
| 2:30-3pm | Wrap-up, Prize Draw, and Farewell |
At this CONNECTS meeting you will be able to choose from an assortment of facilitated discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions. You do not have to sign up for these facilitated discussions in advance.
{slider Camp Planning|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Jenn Kirts, Director of Programs, Chippewa Nature Center
This session is a chance to reflect on last season to prep for the next. Come share ideas for success, discuss hiring challenges, seek solutions to ensure the safety of your campers and your staff, and ask questions of your colleagues.
{slider Partnering for Land Management Solutions|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Tom Lenon, Director of Land & Facilities, Chippewa Nature Center, and Matthew Lindauer, Central Michigan CISMA Coordinator
Partnerships and funding solutions are key elements for the success of land management and invasive species control at any site. Join Chippewa Nature Center land management staff to see how they work with the Michigan DNR and Cooperative Species Management Area (CISMA) partners to find funding solutions to assist in implementing CNC’s land management goals.
{slider Things to Keep and Things to Leave Behind from the Pandemic|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Dan Auer, Membership and Programs Coordinator, ANCA
Dennis Pilaske shared a great quote "COVID has informed every decision we have made over the past two years, but it has not changed our missions." The challenges from the pandemic give our organizations a chance to grow and change. Come together in this facilitated discussion to acknowledge the past but, more importantly, move forward!{/sliders}
{slider Programming Spaces for Young Children|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Steve Frisbee, Nature Day Camp Director and Jenn Kirts, Director of Programs, Chippewa Nature Center
Creating safe, engaging experiences for young children and their families is key to growing the next generation of stewards. Through a walking tour and discussion we will explore elements of programming spaces that help us serve our youngest visitors.
{slider Hiring Challenges and Successes|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Dennis Pilaske, Executive Director, Chippewa Nature Center
Across the county, hiring has never been more challenging. Are you assessing pay rates, and benefits? What methods have you used to find staffing during this challenging time? Join this facilitated discussion to share ideas, ask questions, and dig deeper into current hiring challenges and successes.
{slider Prioritizing Animal Welfare: The Benefits of Happy and Healthy Animals for Your Nature Center|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Elizabeth “Lizzy” Schultz, Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center Coordinator
Our animal ambassadors connect visitors to nature in an exciting way! They create memorable experiences that can inspire people to help conserve and protect wildlife and the environment. But without prioritizing animal welfare, these “magical moments” with guests may come at the cost of an animal’s quality of life. Stressed animals mostly hide or lay still, while animals that feel safe and secure will explore and exhibit natural behaviors that visitors truly enjoy. Anyone that utilizes animals at their nature center are encouraged to join this roundtable to learn, share, and ask questions. You will leave this discussion with tools to implement systems that prioritize, maintain, and evaluate animal welfare, regardless of the amount of staff or resources you have.
{slider Kalamazoo Nature Center’s Carbon Action Plan|icon|closed}
Facilitated by Nathan J. Smallwood, President of Kalamazoo Nature Center, and Jessica Simons, VP Conservation Stewardship at Kalamazoo Nature Center
Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) has adopted a Carbon Action Plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, not including offsets via carbon sequestration on its lands. The plan focuses on Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emission reductions from facilities and operations, and clean production from solar arrays.
Management of KNC's 1,500 acres historically focused on habitat health and visitor experiences. Using advanced remote sensing and modeling techniques to understand the carbon storage and sequestration capabilities of KNC’s forestland, KNC is now exploring how forests can be part of a broader climate response strategy.
In this session we will discuss KNC's carbon plan, challenges in measurement, reporting, as well as managing our forests as part of KNC's local response to the global climate crisis.{/sliders}
Registration has closed.
Chippewa Nature Center is one of the largest private non-profit nature centers in the United States. Through the years, CNC has grown from its original 198 acre parcel and an all-volunteer staff to include over 1,500 acres, 19 miles of trails, 50 staff members, and hundreds of volunteers. Over 70,000 people visit CNC every year, including 1,000 Nature Day Campers and thousands of school children.
Address: 400 S Badour Rd, Midland, MI 48640
Directions on Google Maps
{source}<iframe src="https://www.openstreetmap.org/export/embed.html?bbox=-87.25891113281251%2C41.7508241355329%2C-81.32629394531251%2C45.394592696926615&layer=mapnik&marker=43.600688035374034%2C-84.29388999938965" width="100%" height="500"></iframe>{/source}
ANCA strongly recommends that all participants who are eligible are up to date on COVID vaccinations. If you are traveling to an ANCA event on public transportation (including trains and planes) wearing a face mask is highly recommended during travel. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms or have received a positive diagnosis within 5 days preceding, please stay home. Any national, state, or local regulation, including an event host site regulation, that supersedes these recommendations will automatically be in effect.
LAST-MODIFIED:20221101T142526Z SEQUENCE:5520961 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1293 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221201 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221202 UID:68D2DD89-5089-497A-A7DB-C73BB384649B SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: Governmental Centers CREATED:20220824T204701Z DTSTAMP:20220824T204701Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/gov-connects-22 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHave a question or topic you would like to discuss with your Governmental Center peers? Bring it to this Peer CONNECTS meeting. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.\NIf you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.\NGovernmental Centers share the unique challenges of being a public entity or part of a public-private partnership. Anyone who is part of a Governmental Center or who is interested in this particular field is welcome to attend.\NCost: $10 members, $15 non-members\NRegister here\N\NANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.\NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have a question or topic you would like to discuss with your Governmental Center peers? Bring it to this Peer CONNECTS meeting. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.
If you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.
Governmental Centers share the unique challenges of being a public entity or part of a public-private partnership. Anyone who is part of a Governmental Center or who is interested in this particular field is welcome to attend.
Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
One of the strongest hurricanes to ever make landfall in the US, Hurricane Ian caused widespread damage across the southeastern US. While Ian had a major impact on nature center operations, we know that with our changing climate, we’ll need to adapt for more such storms in the future. In this discussion we’ll share ideas on hurricane preparation, internal and external communications before and after the storm, and what we can do to be more resilient during future hurricanes and other natural disasters.
We’ll use a “Facilitated Discussion” format where all participants contribute to the discussion and a facilitator guides the dialogue. Learn how Facilitated Discussions work here. Depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different related topics.
If you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.
Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET
So you’re ready to implement DEI into your organizational structure, but not sure where to start? Here we’ll discuss how to cultivate buy-in from your stakeholders and take the next steps so that DEI is an integrated part of all your operations, rather than a siloed initiative. Whether your organization is just starting out or has been on a DEI journey for years, you can come to learn and share with your fellow peers in this Facilitated Discussion.
Registration: $10 members, $15 non-members
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group
This group is a space for ANCA members and non-members to come together to discuss relevant DEI resources, deepen our DEI learning, find support and inspiration from each other, and make plans for action. The group will gather to discuss a particular theme with opportunities to explore your own topics. The idea is that whatever format works best for you, you’ll have a way to engage!
Future Sessions
March 29 — Access for All Abilities: Ableism in Nature
May 24 — Land Acknowledgement and DEI Statements
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230105T174518Z SEQUENCE:36884553 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:225 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230202 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230203 UID:9134D755-F136-4ED4-9B87-82EC15C4F598 SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: Giving Gratitude CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/giving-gratitude DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NIn this discussion we will focus on the importance of giving gratitude in our day-to-day work. From thanking donors (acknowledgment letter, special thanks for specific giving levels, new donor thank you, special events, etc.) to acknowledging the good work of staff (job preference, special skills, etc.), these interactions can make or break a relationship. As a group, we'll discuss tips and tricks for making this action a priority in your day-to-day life. We'll spend time sharing specific tactics that you and others have found to be successful, and we'll practice delivering gratitude. You'll find that no matter the mission, budget, or location, acknowledging the good in others is a key for success!\NFacilitated by:\N\NJenn Wright, Executive Director at Grass River Natural Area\NDennis Pilaske, Executive Director at Chippewa Nature Center\N\NRegistration: $10 members, $15 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.\NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
In this discussion we will focus on the importance of giving gratitude in our day-to-day work. From thanking donors (acknowledgment letter, special thanks for specific giving levels, new donor thank you, special events, etc.) to acknowledging the good work of staff (job preference, special skills, etc.), these interactions can make or break a relationship. As a group, we'll discuss tips and tricks for making this action a priority in your day-to-day life. We'll spend time sharing specific tactics that you and others have found to be successful, and we'll practice delivering gratitude. You'll find that no matter the mission, budget, or location, acknowledging the good in others is a key for success!
Facilitated by:
Registration: $10 members, $15 non-members
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230124T152359Z SEQUENCE:38517674 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:330 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230301 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230302 UID:95F5187C-BC04-4937-90A1-39C38F102F06 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Youth Programs Risk Management & Compliance CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/risk-management DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET\NYouth programs are a major component of nature center work, but they come with significant risks. Are you doing the best with managing risk and staying up to date with compliance? Join ANCA member Jenna Moon, Education Director at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, along with our partners at CampDoc, to dive into the tools and resources to help you. Topics will include:\N\NBest practices in risk management\NMedication administration and HIPAA compliance\NHow communication and reporting fit into risk management\N\NThis CONNECTS will be a panel discussion facilitated by ANCA’s Membership & Programs Coordinator Dan Auer, with time for participants to ask questions.\NPanel:\N\NJenna Moon, Education Director at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center\NErinn Kronebusch, Outdoor School Manager at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center\NShekinah Hockenhull, CampDoc Account Executive\NJess Keller, CampDoc Client Success Leader\N\NRegistration: $10 members, $20 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET
Youth programs are a major component of nature center work, but they come with significant risks. Are you doing the best with managing risk and staying up to date with compliance? Join ANCA member Jenna Moon, Education Director at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, along with our partners at CampDoc, to dive into the tools and resources to help you. Topics will include:
This CONNECTS will be a panel discussion facilitated by ANCA’s Membership & Programs Coordinator Dan Auer, with time for participants to ask questions.
Panel:
Registration: $10 members, $20 non-members
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230216T175101Z SEQUENCE:40513696 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:220 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230323 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230324 UID:7BBBE835-7E14-448D-AF75-6DDD3787EBAB SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Summer Camp Directors CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/connects-camp-23 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NCamp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success. Join us for this Open Space meeting where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions such as:\N\NHow are camps recruiting and hiring qualified candidates?\NHow are camper and staff needs changing?\NWhat are the best resources for camp this year?\N\NThis meeting is open to any director, manager, or leader of a summer camp. Learn about Open Space here.\NRegistration: $10 members, $20 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success. Join us for this Open Space meeting where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions such as:
This meeting is open to any director, manager, or leader of a summer camp. Learn about Open Space here.
Registration: $10 members, $20 non-members
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230302T194040Z SEQUENCE:41729875 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:710 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230324 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230325 UID:BB742EFE-F6A0-4214-9308-68D9ABD30B0D SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach, Fla. CREATED:20220829T164925Z DTSTAMP:20220829T164925Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/elc-23 DESCRIPTION:Check-in starts at 10am. Welcome at 11am.\NJoin your nature center peers for an in-person ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) in Vero Beach, Florida, on Friday, March 24th. This meeting is for any professional in our nature center and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members along with professionals from outside Florida to attend.\NAt this CONNECTS meeting you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face. Beyond programs, too, you will have the opportunity to visit and explore the Environmental Learning Center, seeing their operations firsthand.\NParticipants will be able to choose from an assortment of Open Space discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions.\N \NRegistration\NRegistration has closed.\N \NSchedule\N\N\N\N9-10:30am\NMorning Activities (optional)Pelican Island Pontoon TourKayakingEthnobotany Walk\N\N\N10am\NCheck-in and Networking\N\N\N11am\NWelcome\N\N\N11:15am-12:15pm\NTour of the Environmental Learning Center\N\N\N12:30-1:30pm\NLunch and Networking\N\N\N1:45-2:45pm \NBreakout SessionsProgramsDevelopment, Membership, and VolunteersCommunity Engagement and Diversity, Equity, and InclusionSite and Facilities\N\N\N2:45-3pm \NWrap-up and Farewell\N\N\N\N \NPrograms\NMorning Activities (Optional)\NEach participant may choose an activity to start the day at ELC. All activities are 9-10:30am at no additional cost.\N\NPelican Island Pontoon Tour — Enjoy an eco-tour on the Indian River Lagoon to view the many birds and other wildlife as we view our nation's first wildlife refuge.\NKayaking — Come explore the waters and kayak trails through the mangrove forests surrounding the ELC's lagoon island campus.\NEthnobotany Walk — Gain a different perspective on Florida's coastal environment and learn to identify wild edible plants on this guided tour.\N\NBreakout Sessions\NAfternoon breakout sessions will be in an Open Space format, where all participants contribute to the discussion. Topics include:\N\NPrograms\NDevelopment, Membership, and Volunteers\NCommunity Engagement and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion\NSite and Facilities\N\N \NAbout the Environmental Learning Center\NFounded in 1988, the Environmental Learning Center is a 64-acre lagoon-island nature center located in the middle of the Indian River Lagoon in Vero Beach, Florida. ELC’s goal – through participatory, immersive, nature-based experiences accessible to all – is to deepen the human connection with and understanding of other species on our precious planet, so that all humanity can live in harmony with the rest of our natural world.\NThe organization features:\N\NAn interpretative center with interactive exhibits, aquariums and a touch tank\NWalking trails and interactive exhibits, as well as a nature playscape\NWater activities including pontoon boat rides and guided kayak tours\NRotating art exhibits and artist series\N\N\NLocation\NAddress: 255 Live Oak Drive / Vero Beach, FL 32963Directions on Google Maps\N{source}{/source}\N \NANCA COVID Policy\NANCA strongly recommends that all participants who are eligible are up to date on COVID vaccinations. If you are traveling to an ANCA event on public transportation (including trains and planes) wearing a face mask is highly recommended during travel. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms or have received a positive diagnosis within 5 days preceding, please stay home. Any national, state, or local regulation, including an event host site regulation, that supersedes these recommendations will automatically be in effect. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Check-in starts at 10am. Welcome at 11am.
Join your nature center peers for an in-person ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) in Vero Beach, Florida, on Friday, March 24th. This meeting is for any professional in our nature center and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members along with professionals from outside Florida to attend.
At this CONNECTS meeting you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face. Beyond programs, too, you will have the opportunity to visit and explore the Environmental Learning Center, seeing their operations firsthand.
Participants will be able to choose from an assortment of Open Space discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions.
Registration has closed.
| 9-10:30am | Morning Activities (optional) Pelican Island Pontoon Tour Kayaking Ethnobotany Walk |
| 10am | Check-in and Networking |
| 11am | Welcome |
| 11:15am-12:15pm | Tour of the Environmental Learning Center |
| 12:30-1:30pm | Lunch and Networking |
| 1:45-2:45pm | Breakout Sessions Programs Development, Membership, and Volunteers Community Engagement and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Site and Facilities |
| 2:45-3pm | Wrap-up and Farewell |
Each participant may choose an activity to start the day at ELC. All activities are 9-10:30am at no additional cost.
Afternoon breakout sessions will be in an Open Space format, where all participants contribute to the discussion. Topics include:
Founded in 1988, the Environmental Learning Center is a 64-acre lagoon-island nature center located in the middle of the Indian River Lagoon in Vero Beach, Florida. ELC’s goal – through participatory, immersive, nature-based experiences accessible to all – is to deepen the human connection with and understanding of other species on our precious planet, so that all humanity can live in harmony with the rest of our natural world.
The organization features:
Address: 255 Live Oak Drive / Vero Beach, FL 32963
Directions on Google Maps
{source}<iframe src="https://www.openstreetmap.org/export/embed.html?bbox=-80.60119628906251%2C27.62149006586649%2C-80.23040771484376%2C27.89006680192903&layer=mapnik&marker=27.755861251169826%2C-80.41580200195312" width="100%" height="500"></iframe>{/source}
ANCA strongly recommends that all participants who are eligible are up to date on COVID vaccinations. If you are traveling to an ANCA event on public transportation (including trains and planes) wearing a face mask is highly recommended during travel. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms or have received a positive diagnosis within 5 days preceding, please stay home. Any national, state, or local regulation, including an event host site regulation, that supersedes these recommendations will automatically be in effect.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230321T204508Z SEQUENCE:17639743 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1229 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230329 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230330 UID:D4523C78-3595-4301-A96E-EDC7C7ADE7CD SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: DEI Discussion Group — Access for All Abilities: Ableism in Nature CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/dei-discussion-2 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET\NIs your nature center accessible? Access to nature is important for everyone, abled and disabled. In this session we’ll discuss the differences in abilities that we should be aware of, and what changes we can make to better accommodate disabled community members. Join us for a Facilitated Discussion with your fellow peers.\NRegistration: $10 members, $15 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\NDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion GroupThis group is a space for ANCA members and non-members to come together to discuss relevant DEI resources, deepen our DEI learning, find support and inspiration from each other, and make plans for action. The group will gather to discuss a particular theme with opportunities to explore your own topics. The idea is that whatever format works best for you, you’ll have a way to engage! \NFuture SessionMay 24 — Land Acknowledgement and DEI Statements\N \NANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.\NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET
Is your nature center accessible? Access to nature is important for everyone, abled and disabled. In this session we’ll discuss the differences in abilities that we should be aware of, and what changes we can make to better accommodate disabled community members. Join us for a Facilitated Discussion with your fellow peers.
Registration: $10 members, $15 non-members
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group
This group is a space for ANCA members and non-members to come together to discuss relevant DEI resources, deepen our DEI learning, find support and inspiration from each other, and make plans for action. The group will gather to discuss a particular theme with opportunities to explore your own topics. The idea is that whatever format works best for you, you’ll have a way to engage!
Future Session
May 24 — Land Acknowledgement and DEI Statements
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230105T174713Z SEQUENCE:36884668 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1138 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230406 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230407 UID:C44E23B0-56B2-4AC2-99D6-61A56477869E SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Tax Deductibility of Membership CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/tax-deductibility DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET\NMembership: Does it count as a charitable contribution? Is it tax deductible? Yes, it can be! But not always. Join ANCA member Laura Schmid, Senior Manager of Membership & Annual Giving at Cincinnati Nature Center, to learn more about what your members need to know about taxes and membership. Topics will include:\N\NTax-deductible value\NDisclosure of fair market value\NInsubstantial value\N\NThis CONNECTS will be a presentation and facilitated discussion with time for participants to ask questions.\NRegistration: $10 members, $20 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET
Membership: Does it count as a charitable contribution? Is it tax deductible? Yes, it can be! But not always. Join ANCA member Laura Schmid, Senior Manager of Membership & Annual Giving at Cincinnati Nature Center, to learn more about what your members need to know about taxes and membership. Topics will include:
This CONNECTS will be a presentation and facilitated discussion with time for participants to ask questions.
Registration: $10 members, $20 non-members
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230306T191515Z SEQUENCE:42073950 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:607 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230426 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230427 UID:F5DC413C-FF45-4091-A5B3-017196F2B82E SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Open Hours CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/open-hours DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHave you ever had a question about ANCA and didn’t know who to ask? Now’s your chance!\NOn April 26th, we will host virtual Open Hours with ANCA Staff and Board Members. Sign on at any time to get your questions answered! Wondering about your ANCA membership and its benefits? Do you want to know more about our services? Please come.\NIf you’re facing a particular challenge or are looking for a specific resource for your organization, too, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction for help. We look forward to connecting with you.\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom; please register to receive the Zoom link. Drop in at any time that works for you. Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.\NREGISTER HERE\N If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have you ever had a question about ANCA and didn’t know who to ask? Now’s your chance!
On April 26th, we will host virtual Open Hours with ANCA Staff and Board Members. Sign on at any time to get your questions answered! Wondering about your ANCA membership and its benefits? Do you want to know more about our services? Please come.
If you’re facing a particular challenge or are looking for a specific resource for your organization, too, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction for help. We look forward to connecting with you.
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom; please register to receive the Zoom link. Drop in at any time that works for you. Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230320T190358Z SEQUENCE:43282873 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:473 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230505 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230506 UID:C1887AA3-6AA6-4A2B-9000-42479935DB12 SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: New England / North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier, Vt. CREATED:20220829T164925Z DTSTAMP:20220829T164925Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/nbnc-23 DESCRIPTION:Friday, May 5: 9am-4pm\NJoin your nature center peers for an in-person ANCA CONNECTS meeting at North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier, Vt.. This meeting is for any professional in the nature center and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members along with professionals from outside New England to attend. \NAt this CONNECTS meeting you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face. Beyond programs, too, you will have the opportunity to visit and explore the North Branch Nature Center, seeing their operations firsthand.\NParticipants will be able to choose from an assortment of Open Space discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions. Learn more about Open Space here.\NAlong with these discussions, before or after the meeting, attendees can hike or have unscheduled time to network or tour on their own.\NWe look forward to gathering to connect and share ideas!\NThis event is sponsored by Eilers Financial Services and Marshall & Sterling Insurance.\N \NRegistration\NRegistration is $28 for ANCA members and $38 for non-members. This includes the cost of a light breakfast snack and a boxed lunch. The last day to register was Monday, May 1.\N \NAbout North Branch Nature Center\NSince 1996 North Branch Nature Center has evolved to become an integral part of outdoor recreation and learning in Central Vermont, serving 15,000 people annually. The 28-acre preserve of forest and fields is nestled in a gentle bend of the North Branch of the Winooski River, just two miles from downtown Montpelier. Popular year-round as a quiet place to walk, ski, swim, or simply to do nothing beside the river, NBNC welcomes visitors of all ages to attend year-round programs and festivals, all designed to get people outside and immersed in nature. Powerful, personal experiences in nature are central to NBNC's goal of cultivating current and future generations of environmental stewards.\N\N \NLocation\NAddress: 713 Elm Street / Montpelier, Vermont 05602Directions on Google Maps\N{source}{/source}\N \NANCA COVID Policy\NANCA strongly recommends that all participants who are eligible are up to date on COVID vaccinations. If you are traveling to an ANCA event on public transportation (including trains and planes) wearing a face mask is highly recommended during travel. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms or have received a positive diagnosis within 5 days preceding, please stay home. Any national, state, or local regulation, including an event host site regulation, that supersedes these recommendations will automatically be in effect.\N \NSponsors\N\N\N\N\N\N\N\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Join your nature center peers for an in-person ANCA CONNECTS meeting at North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier, Vt.. This meeting is for any professional in the nature center and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members along with professionals from outside New England to attend.
At this CONNECTS meeting you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face. Beyond programs, too, you will have the opportunity to visit and explore the North Branch Nature Center, seeing their operations firsthand.
Participants will be able to choose from an assortment of Open Space discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions. Learn more about Open Space here.
Along with these discussions, before or after the meeting, attendees can hike or have unscheduled time to network or tour on their own.
We look forward to gathering to connect and share ideas!
This event is sponsored by Eilers Financial Services and Marshall & Sterling Insurance.
Registration is $28 for ANCA members and $38 for non-members. This includes the cost of a light breakfast snack and a boxed lunch. The last day to register was Monday, May 1.
Since 1996 North Branch Nature Center has evolved to become an integral part of outdoor recreation and learning in Central Vermont, serving 15,000 people annually. The 28-acre preserve of forest and fields is nestled in a gentle bend of the North Branch of the Winooski River, just two miles from downtown Montpelier. Popular year-round as a quiet place to walk, ski, swim, or simply to do nothing beside the river, NBNC welcomes visitors of all ages to attend year-round programs and festivals, all designed to get people outside and immersed in nature. Powerful, personal experiences in nature are central to NBNC's goal of cultivating current and future generations of environmental stewards.
Address: 713 Elm Street / Montpelier, Vermont 05602
Directions on Google Maps
{source}<iframe src="https://www.openstreetmap.org/export/embed.html?bbox=-75.53100585937501%2C42.52069952914966%2C-69.59838867187501%2C45.99696161820381&layer=mapnik&marker=44.28453670601888%2C-72.564697265625" width="100%" height="500"></iframe>{/source}
ANCA strongly recommends that all participants who are eligible are up to date on COVID vaccinations. If you are traveling to an ANCA event on public transportation (including trains and planes) wearing a face mask is highly recommended during travel. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms or have received a positive diagnosis within 5 days preceding, please stay home. Any national, state, or local regulation, including an event host site regulation, that supersedes these recommendations will automatically be in effect.
Time: 8-9:30am AKT / 9am-10:30pm PT / 10-11:30am MT / 11am-12:30pm CT / 12-1:30pm ET
In order to be effective, equity and inclusion initiatives can’t be siloed into a single department — they must be integrated into all aspects of an organization’s operations. Here we’ll explore how an organizational commitment to equity and inclusion relates to risk management practices. We’ll address such questions as:
Join us to explore these principles and discuss ways to apply them to your specific workplace. All are welcome and encouraged to join us and share lessons learned with each other.
Experiential Consulting, LLC provides risk management support to outdoor and experiential education programs, and is proud to collaborate with ANCA on this meeting.
Presenters:
This CONNECTS will be a presentation and facilitated discussion with time for participants to ask questions.
Registration: ANCA members $10, non-members $20
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 2-4pm CT
We invite you to join your nature center peers for a Virtual ANCA Peer CONNECTS meeting for Texas centers. This meeting is for any professional in the nature center and environmental learning center community — we welcome both ANCA members and non-members.
At this CONNECTS meeting you can learn in depth about the operations of nature centers and related organizations, and engage with peers who understand the challenges you face.
Participants will be able to choose from an assortment of Open Space discussions, sessions where all participants contribute to the conversation. Facilitators guide the dialogue but do not give a formal presentation. These discussions are an excellent opportunity to share with your peers, learn new ideas, discuss trends in the profession, and work together to find solutions.
Registration: $10 members, $20 non-members
ANCA CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230320T194856Z SEQUENCE:43285571 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:546 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230524 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230525 UID:215B092D-C23B-4CA8-B2ED-BD39DF5FDDE0 SUMMARY:ANCA Peer CONNECTS: DEI Discussion Group — Land Acknowledgement and DEI Statements CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/dei-discussion-3 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET\NAcknowledgments and statements can be an important measure when paired with action — but such articulations need to be intentional and purposeful. In this session we’ll discuss best practices for crafting a statement and who should be part of the process, as well as how to communicate the statement to stakeholders. We’ll also have time to share resources and statements from our own organizations.\NRegistration: $10 members, $15 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\NDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion GroupThis group is a space for ANCA members and non-members to come together to discuss relevant DEI resources, deepen our DEI learning, find support and inspiration from each other, and make plans for action. The group will gather to discuss a particular theme with opportunities to explore your own topics. The idea is that whatever format works best for you, you’ll have a way to engage! \N \NANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.\NTo qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.\NIn ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET
Acknowledgments and statements can be an important measure when paired with action — but such articulations need to be intentional and purposeful. In this session we’ll discuss best practices for crafting a statement and who should be part of the process, as well as how to communicate the statement to stakeholders. We’ll also have time to share resources and statements from our own organizations.
Registration: $10 members, $15 non-members
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group
This group is a space for ANCA members and non-members to come together to discuss relevant DEI resources, deepen our DEI learning, find support and inspiration from each other, and make plans for action. The group will gather to discuss a particular theme with opportunities to explore your own topics. The idea is that whatever format works best for you, you’ll have a way to engage!
ANCA Peer CONNECTS bring together nature and environmental learning center leaders who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. They are available to ANCA Members and non-members.
To qualify for the member rate, attendees need to be current Student, Emeritus, Associate, or Professional Members or an employee or board member of an Organization Member. Not a member? You can join here. Want to upgrade to an Organization membership? Please email membership@natctr.org.
In ANCA Peer CONNECTS, all attendees contribute to a shared dialogue that brings out an abundance of perspectives, possibilities, and renewed energy. We invite you to participate in the discussion and bring your questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20230105T174839Z SEQUENCE:36884754 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:704 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230608 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230609 UID:E935A56C-8CA5-4077-A950-D8C91D54AE91 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Member Orientation CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-member-23 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHave you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. We’ll also have time for you to meet other new members so that you can build connections and start to expand your peer network.\NThe meeting will be hosted by:\N\NANCA Executive Director Jen Levy\NANCA Membership and Programs Coordinator Dan Auer\NANCA President-Elect and Vice President of Strategic Direction Kristin Smith\NANCA Board Member Dennis Pilaske\NANCA Committee Member Naomi Heindel\N\NWe will use a Padlet bulletin board for introductions and Breakout Rooms for small group discussions.\NRegistration: free\NREGISTER HERE\N If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. We’ll also have time for you to meet other new members so that you can build connections and start to expand your peer network.
The meeting will be hosted by:
We will use a Padlet bulletin board for introductions and Breakout Rooms for small group discussions.
Registration: free
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Governmental nature centers and outdoor schools have distinct operations, governance, and funding from their nonprofit counterparts. If you’re part of a governmental organization or a public-private partnership, please join us for this CONNECTS program where we’ll dive into the unique challenges that governmental centers face.
We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time, so you can bring your questions and interests to the conversation. This allows you to collaborate and share with peers who can relate to your successes and challenges. Learn more about Open Space here.
If you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.
Registration: $10 ANCA members, $20 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Summer Camp 2023 is over! What was successful? What was challenging? Where are the best camp resources? Join us for a discussion with other camp directors and staff to share successes, challenges, and celebrate Summer Camp!
This meeting is open to any Summer Camp Leader from both overnight and day-use programs. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA CONNECTS.
For our discussion, we will use a Padlet bulletin board to gather ideas for topics and to share resources. The link will be sent to you when you register. We’ll use an Open Space format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics.
Registration: $15 ANCA members, $30 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have a question or topic you would like to discuss with your Outdoor School peers? Bring it to this CONNECTS meeting. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.
If you have a topic you’d like to cover, please add it to this Padlet bulletin board. You’re also welcome to comment, ask questions, and ‘like’ the topics you hope to discuss. We will choose 3-5 topics based on the number of “likes” and comments.
Outdoor Schools share the unique challenges of housing and feeding students for multiple days. Anyone who is part of an Outdoor School, or who is interested in this particular field, is welcome to attend.
In addition to the discussion, Katie Wright, National Outdoor School for All Project Manager, will share an update about new national partnerships and how national organizations are working together to support local network building. Learn about resources to find local policies that may support your work and updates on states that are making progress in their statewide outdoor school for all legislation. Learn more about Outdoor School for All here.
Registration: $15 ANCA members, $30 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Let's discuss the challenges and opportunities around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work at your organization and the nature center profession. We'll use an "Open Space" format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of suggested topics, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics. Learn how Open Space works here.
Registration: $15 members, $30 non-members
DEI Discussion Group
This group is a space for ANCA members and non-members to come together to discuss relevant DEI resources, deepen our DEI learning, find support and inspiration from each other, and make plans for action. The group will gather to discuss a particular theme with opportunities to explore your own topics. The idea is that whatever format works best for you, you’ll have a way to engage!
Future Sessions
January 17, 2024 — Equitable Compensation and Hiring Practices in Environmental Education
March 20, 2024 — Indigenous, Native, Natural: What Do These Words Mean to a Living Culture?
May 15, 2024 — What Does Equitable Engagement Mean for YOUR Nature Center?
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20231110T171552Z SEQUENCE:63580387 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:510 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231129 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231130 UID:6DEA4210-5D14-4A78-8BAA-871E1EB7316E SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Open Hours CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/open-hours-11-2023 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NDo you have a question about ANCA or our field? These Open Hours offer you the opportunity to connect with ANCA Staff and Board Members. \NWondering about ANCA membership and its benefits? Do you want to know more about our services? Please come. If you’re facing a particular challenge or are looking for a specific resource for your organization, too, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction for help.\NWe’ll be available for the full duration of the program, but you can sign on at any time. Even if you only have a few minutes, you’re welcome to drop by.\NWe look forward to connecting!\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link. Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Do you have a question about ANCA or our field? These Open Hours offer you the opportunity to connect with ANCA Staff and Board Members.
Wondering about ANCA membership and its benefits? Do you want to know more about our services? Please come. If you’re facing a particular challenge or are looking for a specific resource for your organization, too, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction for help.
We’ll be available for the full duration of the program, but you can sign on at any time. Even if you only have a few minutes, you’re welcome to drop by.
We look forward to connecting!
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link. Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20231121T193559Z SEQUENCE:64539194 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:332 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231213 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231214 UID:2C307BAE-0B79-4DF2-AAD7-DB4916391004 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Cultivating Shared Leadership on Your Team CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/shared-leadership DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHow do managers create teams who are invested in each other, the group as a whole, and their organization's mission? Shared leadership structures can do all this and more — they make your job easier, build trust among your team, improve organizational decisions, and build new leaders.\NThe staff of the Blue Lotus Center in West Bend, Wis.In this CONNECTS program we'll explore tactics of shared leadership that can be applied to teams of any size. We'll pull from concepts such as "teal" organizations, sociocracy, and dynamic governance, and share what has worked (and what hasn't!) from our own personal experiences. Topics we'll cover include:\N\NMultiple types of team structures, including hierarchies, crews, and collaborative teams\NStyles of making decisions, including collaborative decision making and consent-based decision making\NSpecific tools you can use with your team, regardless of team structure\N\NFor more of introduction to these tactics, see our recent article on shared leadership in Directions, the ANCA journal. This program will be an opportunity to go deeper into these concepts and brainstorm how you might apply them at your own organization. Whether you are a new leader wanting to get your new team off to the right start or a seasoned professional seeking to shake up some of your team's established patterns, you'll be sure to walk away with some ideas!\NFacilitators:\N\NGlenna Holstein, ANCA Board Member\NMike Larson, Executive Director, The Blue Lotus Center\N\NRegistration: $15 ANCA members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NANCA CONNECTS Annual Pass holders register for free.\NNote: This CONNECTS is based on a session from the 2023 ANCA Annual Summit. If you attended that session there, feel free to join us again! There will be some overlap in the information shared, but we will have space for new dialogue and perhaps you can share your experiences of what you've tried since our first discussion. \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
How do managers create teams who are invested in each other, the group as a whole, and their organization's mission? Shared leadership structures can do all this and more — they make your job easier, build trust among your team, improve organizational decisions, and build new leaders.
The staff of the Blue Lotus Center in West Bend, Wis.In this CONNECTS program we'll explore tactics of shared leadership that can be applied to teams of any size. We'll pull from concepts such as "teal" organizations, sociocracy, and dynamic governance, and share what has worked (and what hasn't!) from our own personal experiences. Topics we'll cover include:
For more of introduction to these tactics, see our recent article on shared leadership in Directions, the ANCA journal. This program will be an opportunity to go deeper into these concepts and brainstorm how you might apply them at your own organization. Whether you are a new leader wanting to get your new team off to the right start or a seasoned professional seeking to shake up some of your team's established patterns, you'll be sure to walk away with some ideas!
Facilitators:
Registration: $15 ANCA members, $30 non-members
ANCA CONNECTS Annual Pass holders register for free.
Note: This CONNECTS is based on a session from the 2023 ANCA Annual Summit. If you attended that session there, feel free to join us again! There will be some overlap in the information shared, but we will have space for new dialogue and perhaps you can share your experiences of what you've tried since our first discussion.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:
As part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.
The ANCA staff at a Staff Retreat in April 2023. From left to right: Jen Levy, McKenzie Achatz, Daniel Auer, and Asa Duffee.
This program will be hosted by Executive Director Jen Levy, Membership & Programs Coordinator Dan Auer, Director of Marketing & Communications Asa Duffee, and Committee Members Rebecca Minnick, Naomi Heindel, Seth Engelbourg.
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20231206T190125Z SEQUENCE:65833120 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:478 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240117 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240118 UID:44C20FFC-92B8-4873-8CA0-13DBD33C97B6 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: DEI Discussion Group — Equitable Compensation and Hiring Practices in Environmental Education CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/dei-group-01-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET \NAchieving your organization’s mission depends on the effective work of your staff — but what if you’re not able to hire and retain skilled employees?\NEquitable pay and benefits are vital to attract and keep talent within your organization. This is especially important when considering that there are major costs associated with replacing employees: it’s estimated that replacing a salaried employee can cost up to twice that employee’s annual salary.\NIn this ANCA CONNECTS program we’ll discuss equitable compensation and hiring practices based on eeGuidance for Equitable Pay and Hiring in Environmental Education, a document from the Southeastern Environmental Education Alliance. The eeGuidance explores equitable compensation, position design, recruitment, and hiring practices based on data within the environmental education field, and contains recommendations to advance equitable practices within our organizations. In the program we’ll specifically reference the Maine Environmental Education Association’s recent work on equitable compensation as a case study.\NThis CONNECTS will be interactive with time for participants to connect in small groups to discuss their own reflections on this complex issue, as well as to share challenges and solutions. Reading the eeGuidance beforehand is recommended, but not required.\NThis program is part of the ANCA CONNECTS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group, which allows professionals in our field to share experience and insights with each other, exchange relevant resources, and make plans for action. Anyone who wants to advance DEI efforts within their organization is welcome. If you’re just curious about this work, starting out recently, or you have years of experience, we invite you to join us for learning and sharing together. You can expect:\N\NAn insightful conversation and sharing of professional experiences\NExchanging resources and educational materials\NA supportive community that encourages taking action to promote DEI\N\NFacilitator: Olivia Griset, Executive Director, Maine Environmental Education Association; Advisor on the SEEA eeGuidance for Equitable Pay and Hiring document\NRegistration: $15 members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\NFor your convenience, all DEI Discussion Group programs use the same registration form. ANCA CONNECTS Annual Pass holders register for free.\NFuture DEI Discussion Group SessionsMarch 20, 2024 — Indigenous, Native, Natural: What Do These Words Mean to a Living Culture?May 15, 2024 — What Does Equitable Engagement Mean for YOUR Nature Center?\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Achieving your organization’s mission depends on the effective work of your staff — but what if you’re not able to hire and retain skilled employees?
Equitable pay and benefits are vital to attract and keep talent within your organization. This is especially important when considering that there are major costs associated with replacing employees: it’s estimated that replacing a salaried employee can cost up to twice that employee’s annual salary.
In this ANCA CONNECTS program we’ll discuss equitable compensation and hiring practices based on eeGuidance for Equitable Pay and Hiring in Environmental Education, a document from the Southeastern Environmental Education Alliance. The eeGuidance explores equitable compensation, position design, recruitment, and hiring practices based on data within the environmental education field, and contains recommendations to advance equitable practices within our organizations. In the program we’ll specifically reference the Maine Environmental Education Association’s recent work on equitable compensation as a case study.
This CONNECTS will be interactive with time for participants to connect in small groups to discuss their own reflections on this complex issue, as well as to share challenges and solutions. Reading the eeGuidance beforehand is recommended, but not required.
This program is part of the ANCA CONNECTS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group, which allows professionals in our field to share experience and insights with each other, exchange relevant resources, and make plans for action. Anyone who wants to advance DEI efforts within their organization is welcome. If you’re just curious about this work, starting out recently, or you have years of experience, we invite you to join us for learning and sharing together. You can expect:
Facilitator: Olivia Griset, Executive Director, Maine Environmental Education Association; Advisor on the SEEA eeGuidance for Equitable Pay and Hiring document
Registration: $15 members, $30 non-members
For your convenience, all DEI Discussion Group programs use the same registration form. ANCA CONNECTS Annual Pass holders register for free.
Future DEI Discussion Group Sessions
March 20, 2024 — Indigenous, Native, Natural: What Do These Words Mean to a Living Culture?
May 15, 2024 — What Does Equitable Engagement Mean for YOUR Nature Center?
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20231219T142656Z SEQUENCE:66939851 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1610 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240208 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240209 UID:89148AF4-8DD1-4C1C-95FA-8AB5F689B11F SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Personnel Policies and Employee Benefits CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/personnel-policies-benefits DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET \NPersonnel policies and employee benefits are practical ways you can honor the work of your staff while also providing structures for a healthy workplace. By clearly defining your policies and benefits, your organization can ensure legal compliance, clarity of staff expectations, and fairness in decision-making — as well as increase workplace satisfaction.\NStaff of The Nature Museum in Grafton, Vt., at the organization's 2023 Fairy House Festival. From left to right: Assistant Educators Jess Jones, Kate Witte, and Barbara Carey.The Nature Museum in Grafton, Vt., and North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier, Vt., each recently led comprehensive personnel policy overhauls and benefit reviews that navigated issues such as legal requirements, appropriate language, and cost. In doing so, these organizations sought to improve benefits, provide clarity and structure, and support staff.\NIn this facilitated discussion, we’ll explain how these organizations accomplished this and what their policies and benefits now include. We’ll discuss specific topics such as:\N\NBenefits such as paid leave, sick time, and retirement accounts\NSupporting staff diversity\NEmployee classification, including hourly versus salaried and exempt versus non-exempt\N\NThis program will also include space for questions and discussion about your own personnel policies and employee benefits.\NFor an introduction to this topic, see our recent article on this topic in Directions, the ANCA journal. This program will be an opportunity to go deeper into personnel policies and benefits, and examine how you might apply them at your own organization. Whether you want to develop new policies or simply learn what other organizations are doing, you'll be sure to come away with ideas for next steps.\NFACILITATORS\N\NNaomi Heindel, Executive Director, North Branch Nature Center\NNikolas Katrick, Executive Director, The Nature Museum\N\NRegistration: $15 ANCA Members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Personnel policies and employee benefits are practical ways you can honor the work of your staff while also providing structures for a healthy workplace. By clearly defining your policies and benefits, your organization can ensure legal compliance, clarity of staff expectations, and fairness in decision-making — as well as increase workplace satisfaction.
Staff of The Nature Museum in Grafton, Vt., at the organization's 2023 Fairy House Festival. From left to right: Assistant Educators Jess Jones, Kate Witte, and Barbara Carey.The Nature Museum in Grafton, Vt., and North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier, Vt., each recently led comprehensive personnel policy overhauls and benefit reviews that navigated issues such as legal requirements, appropriate language, and cost. In doing so, these organizations sought to improve benefits, provide clarity and structure, and support staff.
In this facilitated discussion, we’ll explain how these organizations accomplished this and what their policies and benefits now include. We’ll discuss specific topics such as:
This program will also include space for questions and discussion about your own personnel policies and employee benefits.
For an introduction to this topic, see our recent article on this topic in Directions, the ANCA journal. This program will be an opportunity to go deeper into personnel policies and benefits, and examine how you might apply them at your own organization. Whether you want to develop new policies or simply learn what other organizations are doing, you'll be sure to come away with ideas for next steps.
FACILITATORS
Registration: $15 ANCA Members, $30 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240105T165808Z SEQUENCE:68417723 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:855 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240320 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240321 UID:2D54D1B2-8C34-44A7-8EE6-6B2F93F85DCE SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: DEI Discussion Group — Indigenous, Native, Natural: What Do These Words Mean to a Living Culture? CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/dei-group-03-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NAs land-based organizations, how can nature centers honor the past and living culture of the Indigenous peoples that lived on — and may still live on — the land an organization occupies?\NStudents in a program at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in Finland, Minn. This program explores how Ojibwe knowledge and technologies in the 1700s had a major influence on the Fur Trade.A land acknowledgment might be part of this process, but putting our words into action is essential. In this ANCA CONNECTS program we will explore modern questions regarding Indigenous life past, present, and future, in historic spaces, including:\N\NWhen giving a land acknowledgment, what are you actually trying to do?\NDo you have enough cultural, political, contextual awareness of what the Native experience is historically and now to understand what your intention is?\N\NLizen Hayes, Executive Director of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Historic Center, will facilitate this program and share about Autrey Mill's efforts in honoring Indigenous cultures. Two other ANCA members will also share their experiences:\N\NMary Parr, Stewardship Manager at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, will talk about Lake Wild Rice, Zizania palustris — also called “Mnomen” in Anishinabemowin — seeded as part of a restoration collaboration with the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, commonly referred to as the Gun Lake Tribe.\NJoe Walewski, Teaching & Learning Coordinator and Naturalist at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, will speak about grant-supported efforts that are happening at Wolf Ridge to reexamine how all of their programs can better support the education of Ojibwe Heritage.\N\NThis program is part of the ANCA CONNECTS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group, which allows professionals in our field to share experience and insights with each other, exchange relevant resources, and make plans for action. Anyone who wants to advance DEI efforts within their organization is welcome. If you’re just curious about this work, starting out recently, or you have years of experience, we invite you to join us for learning and sharing together.\NRegistration: $15 members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NFuture DEI Discussion Group SessionMay 15, 2024 — What Does Equitable Engagement Mean for YOUR Nature Center?\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
As land-based organizations, how can nature centers honor the past and living culture of the Indigenous peoples that lived on — and may still live on — the land an organization occupies?
Students in a program at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in Finland, Minn. This program explores how Ojibwe knowledge and technologies in the 1700s had a major influence on the Fur Trade.A land acknowledgment might be part of this process, but putting our words into action is essential. In this ANCA CONNECTS program we will explore modern questions regarding Indigenous life past, present, and future, in historic spaces, including:
Lizen Hayes, Executive Director of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Historic Center, will facilitate this program and share about Autrey Mill's efforts in honoring Indigenous cultures. Two other ANCA members will also share their experiences:
This program is part of the ANCA CONNECTS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group, which allows professionals in our field to share experience and insights with each other, exchange relevant resources, and make plans for action. Anyone who wants to advance DEI efforts within their organization is welcome. If you’re just curious about this work, starting out recently, or you have years of experience, we invite you to join us for learning and sharing together.
Registration: $15 members, $30 non-members
Future DEI Discussion Group Session
May 15, 2024 — What Does Equitable Engagement Mean for YOUR Nature Center?
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240314T195210Z SEQUENCE:74389765 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1003 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240321 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240322 UID:E40CF1A6-409A-4099-94CF-7B5329094D79 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Overnight Summer Camp Directors CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/overnight-summer-camp-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET \NOvernight camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.\NJoin us for this program where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions and topics such as:\NCampers at Nature Camp in Vesuvius, Va.\N\NHow are camps recruiting and hiring qualified candidates?\NHow are camper and staff needs changing?\NHow do we accommodate diverse needs in overnight accommodations?\NCamp nurses and managing health records\NWhat are the best resources for camp this year?\N\NFor this program we’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a discussion topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of discussion topics, we may use breakout rooms for different topics. Learn more about Open Space here.\NSuggested topics can include any aspect of managing day camps. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to):\N\N\NCurriculum developmentDormitory operationsEquity and inclusion\N\NEvaluationsMarketing and communicationsRegistration software and processesRisk Management\N\NScholarshipsStaff recruitment and trainingWages and stipends\N\N\NThis meeting is open to any overnight camp director, manager, or leader of a summer camp.\NRegistration: $15 ANCA Members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NWe're also offering a separate ANCA CONNECTS program for daytime camp directors on March 28.\NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Overnight camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.
Join us for this program where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions and topics such as:
Campers at Nature Camp in Vesuvius, Va.For this program we’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a discussion topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of discussion topics, we may use breakout rooms for different topics. Learn more about Open Space here.
Suggested topics can include any aspect of managing day camps. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to):
Curriculum development
Dormitory operations
Equity and inclusion
Scholarships
Staff recruitment and training
Wages and stipends
This meeting is open to any overnight camp director, manager, or leader of a summer camp.
Registration: $15 ANCA Members, $30 non-members
We're also offering a separate ANCA CONNECTS program for daytime camp directors on March 28.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T140655Z SEQUENCE:73764250 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1664 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240328 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240329 UID:C312597B-5AD7-40FD-AA60-EFF82DDAEC20 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Summer Day Camp Directors CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/summer-day-camp-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET \NDay camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.\NJoin us for this program where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions and topics such as:\NCampers trek through Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, Minn.\N\NHow are camps recruiting and hiring qualified candidates?\NHow are camper and staff needs changing?\NWhat are the best resources for camp this year?\NSafety policies and training materials\NHow to prepare for high demand\N\NFor this program we’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a discussion topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of discussion topics, we may use breakout rooms for different topics. Learn more about Open Space here.\NSuggested topics can include any aspect of managing day camps. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to):\N\N\NCurriculum developmentEquity and inclusionEvaluations\N\NMarketing and communicationsRegistration software and processesRisk Management\N\NScholarshipsStaff recruitment and trainingWages and stipends\N\N\NThis meeting is open to any day camp director, manager, or leader of a summer camp.\NRegistration: $15 ANCA Members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NWe're also offering a separate ANCA CONNECTS program for overnight camp directors on March 21.\NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Day camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.
Join us for this program where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions and topics such as:
Campers trek through Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, Minn.
For this program we’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a discussion topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of discussion topics, we may use breakout rooms for different topics. Learn more about Open Space here.
Suggested topics can include any aspect of managing day camps. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to):
Curriculum development
Equity and inclusion
Evaluations
Scholarships
Staff recruitment and training
Wages and stipends
This meeting is open to any day camp director, manager, or leader of a summer camp.
Registration: $15 ANCA Members, $30 non-members
We're also offering a separate ANCA CONNECTS program for overnight camp directors on March 21.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T140540Z SEQUENCE:73764175 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:2172 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240425 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240426 UID:B8A4056D-BC20-4A6D-8D49-E781D0FD4B16 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Leaders CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-leaders-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET \NHave you started your leadership or management position within the last five years? This is a formative time when you have many unique opportunities and challenges in your role, such as building upon your organization’s existing operations and culture.\NIn this ANCA CONNECTS program, we’ll discuss these opportunities and challenges of being a new leader at a nature center or related organization. We’ll explore topics like values, vision, and communication, and address questions like:\N\NHow do you implement the vision for your organization or help inspire the vision for the future?\NHow can you help create a strong organizational culture that encourages collaboration, learning, and a commitment to mission?\NHow do you build positive relationships with the stakeholders of your organization?\NWhere might you seek professional development opportunities that are specific to your responsibilities?\N\NThis program will use a “Facilitated Discussion” format, where all participants contribute to the discussion, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions.\NIf you’ve entered a new leadership or management role in the last five years, please join us.\NFacilitators\N\NAllison Mackley, Vice President for Education, Berks Nature\NChad Truxall, Executive Director, Marine Discovery Center\N\N \NRegistration\N\N$15 for ANCA Members and staff/board of ANCA Organization Members\N$30 for non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have you started your leadership or management position within the last five years? This is a formative time when you have many unique opportunities and challenges in your role, such as building upon your organization’s existing operations and culture.
In this ANCA CONNECTS program, we’ll discuss these opportunities and challenges of being a new leader at a nature center or related organization. We’ll explore topics like values, vision, and communication, and address questions like:
This program will use a “Facilitated Discussion” format, where all participants contribute to the discussion, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions.
If you’ve entered a new leadership or management role in the last five years, please join us.
Facilitators
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240326T202340Z SEQUENCE:75428455 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1021 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240515 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240516 UID:D10B9DD5-3508-4C0E-9D23-34F6BD425084 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: DEI Discussion Group — What Does Equitable Engagement Mean for YOUR Nature Center? CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/dei-group-05-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NWe often speak about equitable engagement with our communities — but what does this actually look like in practice?\NIn this session we'll discuss how nature centers and related organizations can engage with their communities, create equitable access to the outdoors, and get kids outside. Facilitators will share how The Discovery Center in Philadelphia uses “Standards of Excellence” to engage the community around them, and the steps Mitchell Lake Audubon Center in San Antonio is taking to be a conservation action center for everyone. We'll also have time to discuss what steps your center is taking to engage equitably.\N\N\NThis program is part of the ANCA CONNECTS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group, which allows professionals in our field to share experience and insights with each other, exchange relevant resources, and make plans for action. Anyone who wants to advance DEI efforts within their organization is welcome. If you’re just curious about this work, starting out recently, or you have years of experience, we invite you to join us for learning and sharing together. \N\N\N{youtube}uqv07P463AQ{/youtube}\NAn introduction to The Discovery Center in Philadelphia and its origins in community.\N\N\NYou can expect:\N\NAn insightful conversation and sharing of professional experiences\NExchanging resources and educational materials\NA supportive community that encourages taking action to promote DEI\N\NThis discussion will be facilitated by:\N\NSara Beesley, Director of Mitchell Lake Audubon Center in San Antonio, Texas\NDamien Ruffner, Manager of The Discovery Center in Philadelphia, Penn.\N\NRegistration: $15 members, $30 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NANCA Annual Pass holders register for free.\NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. \N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
We often speak about equitable engagement with our communities — but what does this actually look like in practice?
In this session we'll discuss how nature centers and related organizations can engage with their communities, create equitable access to the outdoors, and get kids outside. Facilitators will share how The Discovery Center in Philadelphia uses “Standards of Excellence” to engage the community around them, and the steps Mitchell Lake Audubon Center in San Antonio is taking to be a conservation action center for everyone. We'll also have time to discuss what steps your center is taking to engage equitably.
This program is part of the ANCA CONNECTS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Discussion Group, which allows professionals in our field to share experience and insights with each other, exchange relevant resources, and make plans for action. Anyone who wants to advance DEI efforts within their organization is welcome. If you’re just curious about this work, starting out recently, or you have years of experience, we invite you to join us for learning and sharing together.
{youtube}uqv07P463AQ{/youtube}
An introduction to The Discovery Center in Philadelphia and its origins in community.
You can expect:
This discussion will be facilitated by:
Registration: $15 members, $30 non-members
ANCA Annual Pass holders register for free.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240430T174851Z SEQUENCE:78443166 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1524 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240613 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240614 UID:B6B814E9-5FD2-4947-88CB-B5FCE180C342 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Member Orientation CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-members-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHave you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:\N\N\NANCA's virtual and in-person programs\NExclusive resources for ANCA members\NNetworking and mentorship opportunities with nature center professionals\NConnecting with other ANCA member organizations\NANCA's mission and core values\N\NAs part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.\NThis program will be hosted by Executive Director Jen Levy, Membership & Programs Coordinator Dan Auer, and Director of Marketing & Communications Asa Duffee.\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:
As part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.
This program will be hosted by Executive Director Jen Levy, Membership & Programs Coordinator Dan Auer, and Director of Marketing & Communications Asa Duffee.
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240416T133908Z SEQUENCE:77218583 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:783 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240620 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240621 UID:41D20F45-132D-4F53-9583-6F559AF97533 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Executive Leaders CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/executive-leaders-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NDo you serve as your organization's executive director, CEO, manager, or TOP leader? Are you looking for opportunities to meet peers who share the responsibility and challenges of being THE BOSS? Are you looking for solutions from other top leaders? Step away from the day-to-day and participate in conversations with leaders nationwide. This is your opportunity to build long-term relationships and not feel alone in your critical work.\NIn this CONNECTS program, we’ll network and discuss the unique expectations, challenges, and opportunities of being an executive leader. We’ll address questions like:\N\NWhat has been your most significant leadership challenge, and how did you overcome it?\NAre you aware of the new overtime rules finalized by the Department of Labor, and how will you budget for the proposed increases?\NDo you have a succession plan in place? Is your board ready to step in and assume leadership?\N\NThis program will use a Facilitated Discussion format, where all participants contribute, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions. Bring your questions, challenges, and successes to share with the group!\NWho Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members. \NFacilitators:\N\NJen Levy, Executive Director, Association of Nature Center Administrators\NJohn Myers, Executive Director of Indian Creek Nature Center\NBrooks Paternotte, Executive Director of Irvine Nature Center\NBryan Wood, Executive Director of Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center\N\NRegistration: $15\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Do you serve as your organization's executive director, CEO, manager, or TOP leader? Are you looking for opportunities to meet peers who share the responsibility and challenges of being THE BOSS? Are you looking for solutions from other top leaders? Step away from the day-to-day and participate in conversations with leaders nationwide. This is your opportunity to build long-term relationships and not feel alone in your critical work.
In this CONNECTS program, we’ll network and discuss the unique expectations, challenges, and opportunities of being an executive leader. We’ll address questions like:
This program will use a Facilitated Discussion format, where all participants contribute, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions. Bring your questions, challenges, and successes to share with the group!
Who Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members.
Facilitators:
Registration: $15
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240520T121250Z SEQUENCE:80151005 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:926 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240815 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240816 UID:06D6563B-CC12-4F8F-A46A-402A99A4FB46 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Annual Summit Q&A CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/2024-summit-qa DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET\NThe ANCA Annual Summit is coming up soon — September 9-13 at MoSH-Lichterman Nature Center in Memphis, Tennessee.\NIf you have a question about the Summit or want to meet other participants in advance, please join us for this Summit Q&A with ANCA Staff and Board Members.\NThis Q&A will offer you an opportunity to:\N\NAsk any question about the event\NLearn more about Summit programs and logistics\NDiscover how to get the most out of your Summit experience (and your ANCA membership)\NMeet other Summit participants, as well as ANCA Staff and Board Members\N\NIf you’re not sure you’ll attend the Summit but still want to learn more, you’re also welcome to attend.\NWe’ll be available for the full duration of the program, but you can sign on at any time. Even if you only have a few minutes, you’re welcome to drop by.\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please register to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11am AKT / 11am-12pm PT / 12-1pm MT / 1-2pm CT / 2-3pm ET
The ANCA Annual Summit is coming up soon — September 9-13 at MoSH-Lichterman Nature Center in Memphis, Tennessee.
If you have a question about the Summit or want to meet other participants in advance, please join us for this Summit Q&A with ANCA Staff and Board Members.
This Q&A will offer you an opportunity to:
If you’re not sure you’ll attend the Summit but still want to learn more, you’re also welcome to attend.
We’ll be available for the full duration of the program, but you can sign on at any time. Even if you only have a few minutes, you’re welcome to drop by.
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please register to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20240724T135344Z SEQUENCE:85773059 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:797 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241024 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241025 UID:46CC2A8C-E2BE-42E2-AC69-A97E3C6A3A97 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Camp Directors Summer Recap CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/camp-recap-2024 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NSummer Camp 2024 is over! What was successful? What was challenging? Where are the best camp resources? Join us for a discussion with other camp directors and staff to share resources and takeaways that will help you prepare for next year.\NThis meeting is open to any summer camp leader from both overnight and day-use programs. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA CONNECTS.\NFor our discussion, we will use a Padlet bulletin board to gather ideas for topics and to share resources. The link will be sent to you when you register. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics.\NRegistration\N\N$20 for ANCA Members and staff/board of ANCA Organization Members\N$40 for non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Summer Camp 2024 is over! What was successful? What was challenging? Where are the best camp resources? Join us for a discussion with other camp directors and staff to share resources and takeaways that will help you prepare for next year.
This meeting is open to any summer camp leader from both overnight and day-use programs. We welcome both members and non-members to ANCA CONNECTS.
For our discussion, we will use a Padlet bulletin board to gather ideas for topics and to share resources. The link will be sent to you when you register. We’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a topic ahead of time; depending on the number of participants, we may utilize breakout rooms for different topics.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20241008T205840Z SEQUENCE:92364955 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:400 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241219 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241220 UID:4EA78A7D-874E-4940-9785-1BD2FB499F0A SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Member Orientation CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-members-12-24 DESCRIPTION:Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NHave you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:\N\NANCA's virtual and in-person programs\NExclusive resources for ANCA members\NNetworking and mentorship opportunities with nature center professionals\NConnecting with other ANCA member organizations\NANCA's mission and core values\N\NAs part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.\NThis program will be hosted by:\N\NJen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NDan Auer, ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services \NAsa Duffee, ANCA Director of Marketing & Communications \N\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Time: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:
As part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.
This program will be hosted by:
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20241121T155615Z SEQUENCE:96148410 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:135 X-COLOR:3366cc X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250313T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250313T133000 UID:3C8358D3-6BCA-4114-B81C-FC4FCE7197BE SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Summer Camp Directors CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/summer-camp-2025 DESCRIPTION:Camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.\NJoin us for this program where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions and topics such as:\N\NHow are camps recruiting and hiring qualified candidates?\NHow are camper and staff needs changing?\NWhat are the best resources for camp this year?\NSafety policies and training materials\NHow to prepare for high demand\N\NFor this program we’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a discussion topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of discussion topics, we may use breakout rooms for different topics. Learn more about Open Space here.\NSuggested topics can include any aspect of managing day camps. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to):\N\N\NCurriculum developmentEquity and inclusionEvaluations\N\NMarketing and communicationsRegistration software and processesRisk Management\N\NScholarshipsStaff recruitment and trainingWages and stipends\N\N\NThis program takes place on Zoom, and is open to any director, manager, or leader of a summer camp.\NRegistration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.\NPhoto above: Campers at Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, Minnesota. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.
Join us for this program where you can learn and share with camp leaders who face similar challenges. We’ll address questions and topics such as:
For this program we’ll use an “Open Space” format where any participant can suggest a discussion topic ahead of time; this allows you to bring any question where you'd like insights from professional peers. Depending on the number of discussion topics, we may use breakout rooms for different topics. Learn more about Open Space here.
Suggested topics can include any aspect of managing day camps. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to):
Curriculum development
Equity and inclusion
Evaluations
Scholarships
Staff recruitment and training
Wages and stipends
This program takes place on Zoom, and is open to any director, manager, or leader of a summer camp.
Registration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
Photo above: Campers at Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, Minnesota.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T141341Z SEQUENCE:105127856 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:1070 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Dodge_Nature_Center/web_Campers_hiking_through_the_prairie_on_a_picturesque_summer_day._copy.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:Campers hike through a prairie on a summer day. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Dodge_Nature_Center/web_Campers_hiking_through_the_prairie_on_a_picturesque_summer_day._copy.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:Campers hike through a prairie on a summer day. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250320T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250320T133000 UID:870FD637-2958-44EA-B072-80F6B949E958 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Boards of Directors and Nonprofit Leaders CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/board-connects-2025 DESCRIPTION:Running a nonprofit organization is a challenging position for the best of leaders — it takes skill and finesse to direct the mission, strategy and day-to-day operations of an entity, while also working with a board to make critical decisions.\NThere are few other relationships like that of a board and its executive leader. In this program, Kiersten Hill from Firespring will share insights and tips to achieve success for staff and board members alike. She will discuss top communications strategies for managing the relationship, helping you understand how to identify and fill in the blind spots. This will cover:\N\NThe make-up of a board, where it all begins\N5 smart ways to build your board of directors\N10 tips for driving from the passenger seat\NSubtle signs the board is NOT engaged\NHow to get your board to make major expenditures\N\NThis program takes place on Zoom and will include small group discussions led by ANCA members.\NAbout the facilitator:\NKiersten Hill is the Director of Nonprofit Solutions at Firespring. She has almost 2 decades of experience in nonprofit management and fundraising before joining Firespring. She has raised over $20 Million for Nebraska nonprofit organizations and has worked to better train and equip nonprofit leaders and Boards of Directors. Kiersten made a move from nonprofit management and fundraising to Firespring with the goal to help assist, educate, and equip nonprofits at a larger scale.\NFirespring is a full-service marketing company specializing in websites, printing and strategic guidance specifically for nonprofits. When you work with Firespring, you have the confidence to know you’re investing in marketing that works and you can direct time and energy to your mission. ANCA members receive a 20% discount on Firespring services.\NRegistration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Running a nonprofit organization is a challenging position for the best of leaders — it takes skill and finesse to direct the mission, strategy and day-to-day operations of an entity, while also working with a board to make critical decisions.
There are few other relationships like that of a board and its executive leader. In this program, Kiersten Hill from Firespring will share insights and tips to achieve success for staff and board members alike. She will discuss top communications strategies for managing the relationship, helping you understand how to identify and fill in the blind spots. This will cover:
This program takes place on Zoom and will include small group discussions led by ANCA members.
About the facilitator:
Kiersten Hill is the Director of Nonprofit Solutions at Firespring. She has almost 2 decades of experience in nonprofit management and fundraising before joining Firespring. She has raised over $20 Million for Nebraska nonprofit organizations and has worked to better train and equip nonprofit leaders and Boards of Directors. Kiersten made a move from nonprofit management and fundraising to Firespring with the goal to help assist, educate, and equip nonprofits at a larger scale.
Firespring is a full-service marketing company specializing in websites, printing and strategic guidance specifically for nonprofits. When you work with Firespring, you have the confidence to know you’re investing in marketing that works and you can direct time and energy to your mission. ANCA members receive a 20% discount on Firespring services.
Registration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T141532Z SEQUENCE:105127967 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:782 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2024/Pictures/IMG_9380-2.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A light-skinned person with short hair wears a light-blue polo shirt in a forest. They speak to a group of people in the foreground. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2024/Pictures/IMG_9380-2.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A light-skinned person with short hair wears a light-blue polo shirt in a forest. They speak to a group of people in the foreground. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T133000 UID:55F4DC22-EAC1-45AC-8408-688516795212 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Nature Preschools & Forest Schools — Administration 201 CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/preschool-connects-2025 DESCRIPTION:So your nature center has been running a nature-based preschool — let’s talk about the ins and outs of administration! How do you determine financial aid? What do teacher contracts and PTO look like compared to others in your organization? Do employee dependents get tuition discounts or priority admission? How do you retain good teachers? How do you integrate your teachers into the rest of your nature center? Join us for a conversation focused on the successes and challenges of keeping our preschools well staffed, well run, and thriving.\NThis CONNECTS will offer you an opportunity to:\N\NConnect with other leaders of nature centers running nature-based preschools\NShare the successes and challenges you’re facing running your school\NCompare strategies for supporting, retaining, and integrating your teachers\NThink about the policies, administrative systems, and finances that keep your school thriving.\N\NHosted on Zoom, this program will be facilitated by:\N\NNaomi Heindel, Executive Director, North Branch Nature Center\NRebecca Minnick, Executive Director, Louisville Nature Center\N\NRegistration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:So your nature center has been running a nature-based preschool — let’s talk about the ins and outs of administration! How do you determine financial aid? What do teacher contracts and PTO look like compared to others in your organization? Do employee dependents get tuition discounts or priority admission? How do you retain good teachers? How do you integrate your teachers into the rest of your nature center? Join us for a conversation focused on the successes and challenges of keeping our preschools well staffed, well run, and thriving.
This CONNECTS will offer you an opportunity to:
Hosted on Zoom, this program will be facilitated by:
Registration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T141610Z SEQUENCE:105128005 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:905 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Louisville_Nature_Center/kids_climbing_on_log.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A small group of children climb on a fallen tree log in the forest. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Louisville_Nature_Center/kids_climbing_on_log.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A small group of children climb on a fallen tree log in the forest. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T133000 UID:F6D27576-47B4-45FA-92F9-F6487D4E9663 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: The Budget Game CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/budget-game DESCRIPTION:Budgets shape everything in a nonprofit — what programs run, how staff grow, and how an organization thrives. But making those financial decisions isn’t easy. \NEngaging staff in budget simulation helps them understand how nonprofits operate, as well as the challenging decisions that leadership has to make when faced with budgetary constraints. In this CONNECTS program, participants will step into a leadership role and face the real-world challenges of nonprofit financial management. This interactive simulation puts you in charge of balancing mission-driven goals with financial realities, making the tough calls that define the success of an organization.\NProfessionals of all levels and departments will gain budgeting insights from this program, based on a simulation developed by staff at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Minnesota. Taking place on Zoom, this program will be facilitated by:\N\NJenna Moon, Education Director at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center\NColleen Foehrenbacher, Executive Director at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center\N\NRegistration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Budgets shape everything in a nonprofit — what programs run, how staff grow, and how an organization thrives. But making those financial decisions isn’t easy.
Engaging staff in budget simulation helps them understand how nonprofits operate, as well as the challenging decisions that leadership has to make when faced with budgetary constraints. In this CONNECTS program, participants will step into a leadership role and face the real-world challenges of nonprofit financial management. This interactive simulation puts you in charge of balancing mission-driven goals with financial realities, making the tough calls that define the success of an organization.
Professionals of all levels and departments will gain budgeting insights from this program, based on a simulation developed by staff at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Minnesota. Taking place on Zoom, this program will be facilitated by:
Registration: $20 ANCA Members, $40 non-members
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T180822Z SEQUENCE:107474737 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:937 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/stock/piggy_bank.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A handmade piggy bank against a white background. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/stock/piggy_bank.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A handmade piggy bank against a white background. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250424T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250424T133000 UID:58369B5A-54C6-4F71-8F9E-381604678BAA SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Executive Leaders CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/executive-leaders-4-25 DESCRIPTION:Do you serve as your organization's executive director, CEO, manager, or top leader? Are you looking for opportunities to meet peers who share the responsibility and challenges of being "the boss"? Are you looking for solutions from other top leaders? Step away from the day-to-day and participate in conversations with leaders nationwide. This is your opportunity to build long-term relationships and not feel alone in your critical work.\NIn this CONNECTS program, we’ll network and discuss the unique expectations, challenges, and opportunities of being an executive leader. We’ll address questions like:\N\NWhat is your biggest challenge this year?\NHow are you leading your organization through these unprecedented times of chaos and uncertainty?\NHow are you taking care of yourself?\N\NThis program will use a “Facilitated Discussion” format, where all participants contribute, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions. Bring your questions, challenges, and successes to share with the group!\NWho Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members. \NFacilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NRegistration: $20\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Do you serve as your organization's executive director, CEO, manager, or top leader? Are you looking for opportunities to meet peers who share the responsibility and challenges of being "the boss"? Are you looking for solutions from other top leaders? Step away from the day-to-day and participate in conversations with leaders nationwide. This is your opportunity to build long-term relationships and not feel alone in your critical work.
In this CONNECTS program, we’ll network and discuss the unique expectations, challenges, and opportunities of being an executive leader. We’ll address questions like:
This program will use a “Facilitated Discussion” format, where all participants contribute, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions. Bring your questions, challenges, and successes to share with the group!
Who Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members.
Facilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director
Registration: $20
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T204546Z SEQUENCE:107484181 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:548 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/2024-Summit-55_ian_web.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A light-skinned person sits on a patio with green foliage in the background. The person smiles and looks at another person in the foreground. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/2024-Summit-55_ian_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A light-skinned person sits on a patio with green foliage in the background. The person smiles and looks at another person in the foreground. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250605T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250605T130000 UID:32395D4B-8373-4462-854B-53965E123299 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Open Hours CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/open-hours-6-25 DESCRIPTION:Do you have a question about ANCA or our field? These Open Hours offer you the opportunity to connect with ANCA Staff and Board Members. \NWondering about ANCA membership and its benefits? Do you want to know more about our services? Please come. If you’re facing a particular challenge or are looking for a specific resource for your organization, too, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction for help.\NWe will have a special guest joining us for this hour: Heather Manier, Corporate Engagement/Partnerships Manager with the National Association for Interpretation (NAI). NAI is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to advancing the profession of heritage interpretation. It currently serves about 6,500 members in the United States and over 30 other countries. ANCA and NAI have a strong partnership in advancing professionalism in our field. If you are curious about how NAI might be able to help you or your organization, please join us. \NWe’ll be available for the full duration of the program, but you can sign on at any time. Even if you only have a few minutes, you’re welcome to drop by.\NWe look forward to connecting!\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete the registration form to receive the Zoom link. Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.\NREGISTER HERE X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Do you have a question about ANCA or our field? These Open Hours offer you the opportunity to connect with ANCA Staff and Board Members.
Wondering about ANCA membership and its benefits? Do you want to know more about our services? Please come. If you’re facing a particular challenge or are looking for a specific resource for your organization, too, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction for help.
We will have a special guest joining us for this hour: Heather Manier, Corporate Engagement/Partnerships Manager with the National Association for Interpretation (NAI). NAI is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to advancing the profession of heritage interpretation. It currently serves about 6,500 members in the United States and over 30 other countries. ANCA and NAI have a strong partnership in advancing professionalism in our field. If you are curious about how NAI might be able to help you or your organization, please join us.
We’ll be available for the full duration of the program, but you can sign on at any time. Even if you only have a few minutes, you’re welcome to drop by.
We look forward to connecting!
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete the registration form to receive the Zoom link. Both ANCA members and non-members are welcome.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T141151Z SEQUENCE:110657346 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:338 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/DSC_0234copy.jpeg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A stand of pink-purple flowers, standing out amid green foliage. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/DSC_0234copy.jpeg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A stand of pink-purple flowers, standing out amid green foliage. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250612T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250612T133000 UID:F7134137-A672-4DAF-A740-1CA8BF56F749 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Member Orientation CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-members-06-25 DESCRIPTION:Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:\N\NANCA's virtual and in-person programs\NExclusive resources for ANCA members\NNetworking and mentorship opportunities with nature center professionals\NConnecting with other ANCA member organizations\NANCA's mission and core values\N\NAs part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.\NThis program will be hosted by:\N\NJen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NDan Auer, ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services \NAsa Duffee, ANCA Director of Marketing & Communications \N\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:
As part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.
This program will be hosted by:
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T202424Z SEQUENCE:111630099 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:307 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2024/Pictures/eric_summit_web.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:People sit underneath a covered pavilion. One person speaks and gestures with their hand, others listen. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2024/Pictures/eric_summit_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:People sit underneath a covered pavilion. One person speaks and gestures with their hand, others listen. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250626T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250626T133000 UID:3DEB4A35-427C-4C40-8DBE-D3A3B7EC18B2 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Executive Leaders CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/executive-leaders-6-25 DESCRIPTION:Do you serve as your organization's executive director, CEO, manager, or top leader? Are you looking for opportunities to meet peers who share the responsibility and challenges of being "the boss"? Are you looking for solutions from other top leaders? Step away from the day-to-day and participate in conversations with leaders nationwide. This is your opportunity to build long-term relationships and not feel alone in your critical work.\NIn this CONNECTS program, we’ll network and discuss the unique expectations, challenges, and opportunities of being an executive leader. We’ll address questions like:\N\NWhat is your biggest challenge this year?\NHow are you leading your organization through these unprecedented times of chaos and uncertainty?\NHow are you taking care of yourself?\N\NThis program will use a “Facilitated Discussion” format, where all participants contribute, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions. Bring your questions, challenges, and successes to share with the group!\NWho Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members. \NFacilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NRegistration: $20\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Do you serve as your organization's executive director, CEO, manager, or top leader? Are you looking for opportunities to meet peers who share the responsibility and challenges of being "the boss"? Are you looking for solutions from other top leaders? Step away from the day-to-day and participate in conversations with leaders nationwide. This is your opportunity to build long-term relationships and not feel alone in your critical work.
In this CONNECTS program, we’ll network and discuss the unique expectations, challenges, and opportunities of being an executive leader. We’ll address questions like:
This program will use a “Facilitated Discussion” format, where all participants contribute, and a facilitator guides the dialogue. This format allows you to share with your peers, learn new ideas, and work together to find solutions. Bring your questions, challenges, and successes to share with the group!
Who Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members.
Facilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director
Registration: $20
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T211007Z SEQUENCE:114311242 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:208 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/2024-Summit-55_ian_web.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A light-skinned person sits on a patio with green foliage in the background. The person smiles and looks at another person in the foreground. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/2024-Summit-55_ian_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A light-skinned person sits on a patio with green foliage in the background. The person smiles and looks at another person in the foreground. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250717T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250717T133000 UID:9BB05B45-DD76-4989-A0C4-449A6057A587 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Jumpstart Your Q4 with Year-End Appeals That Work! CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/jumpstart-q4 DESCRIPTION:End your 2025 fundraising on a high note and learn how to optimize your short-term campaigns for maximum impact.\NThe most successful year-end campaigns don’t come together overnight. They’re built with intention and early planning. Now is the perfect time to lay the groundwork for a strong fourth quarter, so you’re not scrambling when the busiest fundraising season arrives.\NIn this CONNECTS program, you’ll gain the tools and insights you need to strengthen your year-end giving efforts, from Giving Tuesday through December 31. Whether you're new to year-end fundraising or looking to refine your approach, this program will help you build a campaign that resonates with your audience and delivers results.\NYou’ll explore:\N\NFundraising tactics you can implement quickly and effectively\NThe vital role your website plays in driving donations\NThe essentials for an integrated communications plan\N\NJoin us to jumpstart your Q4 strategy and create a year-end campaign that not only finishes 2025 strong, but sets you up for a successful start to 2026.\NThis program takes place on Zoom and will be recorded. If you register, you’ll receive a link to the recording afterward.\NWho should attend: Staff who fundraise at nature centers and related organizations\NRegistration:\N\N$20 ANCA Members and staff/board at ANCA Organization Members\N$40 Non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\NFacilitator: Kiersten Hill, Director of Nonprofit Solutions, Firespring\NKiersten Hill is the Director of Nonprofit Solutions at Firespring. She has almost 2 decades of experience in nonprofit management and fundraising before joining Firespring. She has raised over $20 Million for Nebraska nonprofit organizations and has worked to better train and equip nonprofit leaders and Boards of Directors. Kiersten made a move from nonprofit management and fundraising to Firespring with the goal to help assist, educate, and equip nonprofits at a larger scale.\NFirespring is a full-service marketing company specializing in websites, printing and strategic guidance specifically for nonprofits. When you work with Firespring, you have the confidence to know you’re investing in marketing that works and you can direct time and energy to your mission. ANCA members receive a 20% discount on Firespring services.\N—\NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:End your 2025 fundraising on a high note and learn how to optimize your short-term campaigns for maximum impact.
The most successful year-end campaigns don’t come together overnight. They’re built with intention and early planning. Now is the perfect time to lay the groundwork for a strong fourth quarter, so you’re not scrambling when the busiest fundraising season arrives.
In this CONNECTS program, you’ll gain the tools and insights you need to strengthen your year-end giving efforts, from Giving Tuesday through December 31. Whether you're new to year-end fundraising or looking to refine your approach, this program will help you build a campaign that resonates with your audience and delivers results.
You’ll explore:
Join us to jumpstart your Q4 strategy and create a year-end campaign that not only finishes 2025 strong, but sets you up for a successful start to 2026.
This program takes place on Zoom and will be recorded. If you register, you’ll receive a link to the recording afterward.
Who should attend: Staff who fundraise at nature centers and related organizations
Registration:
Facilitator: Kiersten Hill, Director of Nonprofit Solutions, Firespring
—
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250702T205447Z SEQUENCE:115433522 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:668 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/stock/checkbook.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:The tip of a ballpoint pen sits atop a blank check. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/stock/checkbook.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:The tip of a ballpoint pen sits atop a blank check. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250807T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250807T130000 UID:28C2706D-524A-4ECD-B69E-847DAECB8673 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Annual Summit Q&A CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/2025-summit-qa DESCRIPTION:The ANCA Annual Summit is coming up soon — August 25-29 at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach, California.\NIf you have a question about the Summit or want to meet other participants in advance, please join us for this Summit Q&A with ANCA Staff and Board Members.\NThis Q&A will offer you an opportunity to:\N\NAsk any question about the event\NLearn more about Summit programs and logistics\NDiscover how to get the most out of your Summit experience (and your ANCA membership)\NMeet other Summit participants, as well as ANCA Staff and Board Members\N\NIf you’re not sure you’ll attend the Summit but still want to learn more, you’re also welcome to attend this program.\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please register to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Members Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:The ANCA Annual Summit is coming up soon — August 25-29 at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach, California.
If you have a question about the Summit or want to meet other participants in advance, please join us for this Summit Q&A with ANCA Staff and Board Members.
This Q&A will offer you an opportunity to:
If you’re not sure you’ll attend the Summit but still want to learn more, you’re also welcome to attend this program.
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please register to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Members Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20250711T133111Z SEQUENCE:116184506 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:345 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2025/Pictures/East_View_with_ENC_sign__plants_web.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A building stands out amid desertous landscaping with native plants. The building has "enc" written on the side. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2025/Pictures/East_View_with_ENC_sign__plants_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A building stands out amid desertous landscaping with native plants. The building has "enc" written on the side. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251030T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251030T133000 UID:482768B1-1E38-4ED1-B5E2-4CBD56C46D6D SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Executive Leaders — Succession Planning CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/executive-leaders-10-25 DESCRIPTION:Let’s be honest: none of us will sit in our chairs forever (though some of our boards may secretly think we will). Is your organization ready for you to leave? Succession planning often lands on our To Do lists, but it’s much easier to push it aside for later.\NIn this Executive Leaders CONNECTS, we’ll talk candidly about how to prepare for the day when you hand over the keys — whether that’s in a year, a decade, or after your surprise retirement announcement. Together, we’ll share practical strategies, swap real stories (both successes and horror shows), and tackle big questions.\NThis is not a webinar or a training: it’s a facilitated discussion, which means your participation, perspective, and questions will make the space meaningful. The facilitator guides the discussion, but everyone is welcome to speak.\NJoin your peers for an honest conversation about planning for the future. Because good leadership isn’t just about what you do now, it’s also about what happens after you’re gone (to that cabin in the woods or beach house you’ve been dreaming of).\NWho Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members.\NFacilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NRegistration: $20\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.\N X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Let’s be honest: none of us will sit in our chairs forever (though some of our boards may secretly think we will). Is your organization ready for you to leave? Succession planning often lands on our To Do lists, but it’s much easier to push it aside for later.
In this Executive Leaders CONNECTS, we’ll talk candidly about how to prepare for the day when you hand over the keys — whether that’s in a year, a decade, or after your surprise retirement announcement. Together, we’ll share practical strategies, swap real stories (both successes and horror shows), and tackle big questions.
This is not a webinar or a training: it’s a facilitated discussion, which means your participation, perspective, and questions will make the space meaningful. The facilitator guides the discussion, but everyone is welcome to speak.
Join your peers for an honest conversation about planning for the future. Because good leadership isn’t just about what you do now, it’s also about what happens after you’re gone (to that cabin in the woods or beach house you’ve been dreaming of).
Who Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members.
Facilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director
Registration: $20
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T151314Z SEQUENCE:123448229 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:320 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2025/Pictures/2025_Summit-33_web.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A light-skinned person in a floral shirt smiles at a person in the foreground. Sunlit foliage stands behind them. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2025/Pictures/2025_Summit-33_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A light-skinned person in a floral shirt smiles at a person in the foreground. Sunlit foliage stands behind them. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251106T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251106T133000 UID:A734A5E9-C0A6-4C4A-BE4C-E72BCE76446D SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Camp Directors Summer Recap CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/camp-recap-2025 DESCRIPTION:Summer Camp 2025 has wrapped, and now is the perfect time for camp leaders to reflect and prepare for the year ahead. What went exceptionally well? What unexpected challenges arose? Where can you find new resources for next year?\NJoin fellow camp directors and leadership staff for a collaborative discussion designed to help you make your next season even stronger. This is your opportunity to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of running summer programs, and learn from one another’s experiences.\NThis program is open to leaders from all types of summer camps at nature centers, outdoor schools, and related environmental organizations — including both day-use and overnight camps. No matter your camp format, you’ll gain practical takeaways to strengthen your operations and programming.\NThe discussion itself will follow an Open Space format, allowing participants to propose the topics most relevant to their programs. We'll also compile resources on a virtual bulletin board that will be available after the program.\NBring your challenges and questions, and leave with new ideas and strategies to make Summer 2026 your most successful season yet!\NRegistration\N\N$20 for ANCA Members and staff/board of ANCA Organization Members\N$40 for non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. Pictured above: campers at Dodge Nature Center in West St Paul, MN. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:
Summer Camp 2025 has wrapped, and now is the perfect time for camp leaders to reflect and prepare for the year ahead. What went exceptionally well? What unexpected challenges arose? Where can you find new resources for next year?
Join fellow camp directors and leadership staff for a collaborative discussion designed to help you make your next season even stronger. This is your opportunity to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of running summer programs, and learn from one another’s experiences.
This program is open to leaders from all types of summer camps at nature centers, outdoor schools, and related environmental organizations — including both day-use and overnight camps. No matter your camp format, you’ll gain practical takeaways to strengthen your operations and programming.
The discussion itself will follow an Open Space format, allowing participants to propose the topics most relevant to their programs. We'll also compile resources on a virtual bulletin board that will be available after the program.
Bring your challenges and questions, and leave with new ideas and strategies to make Summer 2026 your most successful season yet!
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. Pictured above: campers at Dodge Nature Center in West St Paul, MN.
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T191654Z SEQUENCE:123808449 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:693 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Dodge_Nature_Center/web_Campers_hiking_through_the_prairie_on_a_picturesque_summer_day._copy.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A group of people walk through a prairie in a single-file line. Blue skies with whispy clouds above. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Dodge_Nature_Center/web_Campers_hiking_through_the_prairie_on_a_picturesque_summer_day._copy.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A group of people walk through a prairie in a single-file line. Blue skies with whispy clouds above. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251120T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251120T133000 UID:A6DD6B35-3DA3-4790-A509-29242DEDDC10 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Risk Management for Nature Centers CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/risk-management-for-nature-centers DESCRIPTION:Nature centers offer valuable outdoor learning experiences, but these experiences are not without risk. How can nature centers effectively manage risks associated with outdoor activities, and what are the standards and good practices for doing so?\NIn this ANCA CONNECTS program, we'll explore these questions and address the fundamentals of risk management for our organizations. We'll start by defining risk management and examining a model of incident prevention and mitigation specifically designed for outdoor programs.\NWe’ll next walk through good safety practices for outdoor programs, and discuss specific, actionable steps that you can take to improve safety outcomes at your organization. You'll also receive access to additional resources on outdoor safety that you can review following the program.\NIf you want to strengthen your organization’s safety culture and ensure that your staff are prepared to handle risks with confidence and care, this program is for you.\NThis program takes place on Zoom and will be recorded. If you register, you’ll receive a link to the recording afterward.\NWho should attend: Any professional at a nature center or related organization whose work relates to risk management\NRegistration:\N\N$20 ANCA Members and staff/board at ANCA Organization Members\N$40 Non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\NFacilitator: Jeff Baierlein, Director, Viristar\N\N\N\N\N\NJeff Baierlein is the Director of the consultancy Viristar, which provides training, accreditation and consulting services on risk management, curriculum design and other subjects for environmental education, outdoor and adventure programs worldwide.\NJeff led environmental education activities at the Aullwood Audubon Center, Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center, Mass Audubon Wildwood Nature Camp, and Audubon Ecology Camp in Maine. He also served as the Director of Education Services at NatureBridge-Olympic, the Executive Director at the Boojum Institute for Experiential Education, and Executive Director at Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School. Jeff was appointed to the Washington State Governor’s Council on Environmental Education, served as a Trustee of the Northwest Environmental Education Council, and is Safety Advisor for the Center for Ecological Teaching & Learning.\NJeff is the author of "Risk Management for Outdoor Programs: A Guide to Safety in Outdoor Education, Recreation & Adventure," is an expert witness in outdoor safety, and has provided risk management consulting and training services for outdoor professionals in over 75 countries on six continents. He has an undergraduate degree in Environmental Education and a Master’s in Management, and lives in Seattle on the traditional land of the Coast Salish people.\N\N\N—\NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Nature centers offer valuable outdoor learning experiences, but these experiences are not without risk. How can nature centers effectively manage risks associated with outdoor activities, and what are the standards and good practices for doing so?
In this ANCA CONNECTS program, we'll explore these questions and address the fundamentals of risk management for our organizations. We'll start by defining risk management and examining a model of incident prevention and mitigation specifically designed for outdoor programs.
We’ll next walk through good safety practices for outdoor programs, and discuss specific, actionable steps that you can take to improve safety outcomes at your organization. You'll also receive access to additional resources on outdoor safety that you can review following the program.
If you want to strengthen your organization’s safety culture and ensure that your staff are prepared to handle risks with confidence and care, this program is for you.
This program takes place on Zoom and will be recorded. If you register, you’ll receive a link to the recording afterward.
Who should attend: Any professional at a nature center or related organization whose work relates to risk management
Registration:
Facilitator: Jeff Baierlein, Director, Viristar
—
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T194440Z SEQUENCE:124414915 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:733 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/webcrop_Elachee_Tree_Climbing2_copy.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:A person wearing a harness and helmet is being held by a rope from above. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/webcrop_Elachee_Tree_Climbing2_copy.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:A person wearing a harness and helmet is being held by a rope from above. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251218T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251218T133000 UID:0B3C2717-D7FD-4B96-9528-000EF9CB55A5 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Member Orientation CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-members-12-25 DESCRIPTION:Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:\N\NANCA's virtual and in-person programs\NExclusive resources for ANCA members\NNetworking and mentorship opportunities with nature center professionals\NConnecting with other ANCA member organizations\NANCA's mission and core values\N\NAs part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.\NThis program will be hosted by:\N\NJen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NDan Auer, ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services \N\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:
As part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.
This program will be hosted by:
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20251121T214913Z SEQUENCE:127705588 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:277 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/2025_Summit-75_web_crop.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/2025_Summit-75_web_crop.jpg X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260324T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260324T150000 UID:63D88E03-84CC-41A7-9F31-A848CAAB3396 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Executive Leaders CREATED:20260227T194804Z DTSTAMP:20260227T194804Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/executive-leaders-03-26 DESCRIPTION:It can be lonely at the top — but you don’t have to lead alone.\NIf you serve as your organization’s executive director, CEO, manager, or top leader, you carry decisions and responsibilities that few others fully understand. This CONNECTS program is designed specifically for you.\NFacilitated by Kay Carlson, we will use a peer-driven process to help leaders unpack complex challenges in real time. This will be a focused, guided experience that helps you gain new insights about your leadership.\NTogether, we’ll explore how you’re navigating uncertainty and addressing the kinds of challenges that often feel like they sit squarely on your shoulders. You’ll gain perspective from peers who understand the weight of leadership, strengthen your decision-making, and build relationships that extend beyond this session.\NStep away from the day-to-day. Think strategically. Lead with greater clarity, courage, and confidence.\NThis program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.\NWho Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members. \NFacilitators: \N\NKay Carlson, Nonprofit Executive Coach & Consultant, Kay Carlson Consulting LLC & Kessel Strategies\NJen Levy, Executive Director, ANCA\N\NRegistration: $20\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:It can be lonely at the top — but you don’t have to lead alone.
If you serve as your organization’s executive director, CEO, manager, or top leader, you carry decisions and responsibilities that few others fully understand. This CONNECTS program is designed specifically for you.
Facilitated by Kay Carlson, we will use a peer-driven process to help leaders unpack complex challenges in real time. This will be a focused, guided experience that helps you gain new insights about your leadership.
Together, we’ll explore how you’re navigating uncertainty and addressing the kinds of challenges that often feel like they sit squarely on your shoulders. You’ll gain perspective from peers who understand the weight of leadership, strengthen your decision-making, and build relationships that extend beyond this session.
Step away from the day-to-day. Think strategically. Lead with greater clarity, courage, and confidence.
This program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.
Who Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members.
Facilitators:
Registration: $20
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T195958Z SEQUENCE:714 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:231 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/2025_Summit-31_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/2025_Summit-31_web.jpg X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260326T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260326T133000 UID:BDED9D9E-7D58-4D05-8654-D2A3DA6702F7 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Summer Camp Directors CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/summer-camp-2026 DESCRIPTION:Camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.\NJoin fellow camp directors and leadership staff for a collaborative discussion designed to help you prepare for your upcoming camp season. This is your opportunity to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of running summer programs, and learn from one another’s experiences.\NThis program is open to leaders from all types of summer camps at nature centers and related environmental organizations — including both day-use and overnight camps. No matter your camp format, you’ll gain takeaways to strengthen your operations and programming.\NThe discussion itself will follow an Open Space format, allowing participants to propose the topics most relevant to their programs. We'll also compile resources on a virtual bulletin board that will be available after the program.\NBring your challenges and questions, and leave with new ideas and strategies to make this summer your most successful season yet!\NThis program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.\NRegistration\N\N$20 for ANCA Members and staff/board of ANCA Organization Members\N$40 for non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. Pictured above: campers investigate plants at Nature Camp in Vesuvius, VA. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Camp directors, are you ready for your summer programs? Camp is approaching soon, and preparing now is vital for success.
Join fellow camp directors and leadership staff for a collaborative discussion designed to help you prepare for your upcoming camp season. This is your opportunity to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of running summer programs, and learn from one another’s experiences.
This program is open to leaders from all types of summer camps at nature centers and related environmental organizations — including both day-use and overnight camps. No matter your camp format, you’ll gain takeaways to strengthen your operations and programming.
The discussion itself will follow an Open Space format, allowing participants to propose the topics most relevant to their programs. We'll also compile resources on a virtual bulletin board that will be available after the program.
Bring your challenges and questions, and leave with new ideas and strategies to make this summer your most successful season yet!
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. Pictured above: campers investigate plants at Nature Camp in Vesuvius, VA.
LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T202913Z SEQUENCE:135476788 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:450 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Nature_Camp/Botany_6.jpg X-IMAGE-FULL-ALT:Three children examine a plant in the forest, while a young adult points to another plant. X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Member_Photos/Nature_Camp/Botany_6.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO-ALT:Three children examine a plant in the forest, while a young adult points to another plant. X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260416 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260605 UID:DF2ED967-121A-4A8A-9327-1F373C5C038B SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Shared Leadership (series) CREATED:20260318T191014Z DTSTAMP:20260318T191014Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/shared-leadership-2026 DESCRIPTION:Ask a room of 30 people what makes a good leader, and you might get 30 different answers. That’s one of the things that makes leading a team so tricky: different people value different things.\NAs capable and intentional as you might be, it can feel truly impossible to be the “right” leader for everyone. It’s a pretty intimidating prospect — having to be everything to everyone, see things from all angles, make all the decisions, as just one person?\NHere's the good news: we’re convinced that you don’t have to do it all. In fact, it can be more effective, more fulfilling, more equitable, and more motivating when you share leadership on your team.\NJoin us for this series where we will explore why and how to share leadership on your own team, learn practical tools to use in our own organizations, and practice strategies that can make all of us better leaders — together!\NWho this is for\NAnyone in a leadership position at a nature center or related environmental organization.\NSessions\NThis virtual ANCA CONNECTS series takes place in three parts:\N\NThursday, April 16: What Is Shared Leadership? And Why Would You Do It?\NThursday, May 14: Consent-Based Decision Making\NThursday, June 4: How to Organize, Ditch The Pyramid, and Think In Circles\N\NTime for each session: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET\NRecordings\NThis series takes place on Zoom. Each session will feature a presentation by the facilitators, followed by facilitated discussions with peers. After each session, a recording of the presentation (approximately 45 minutes each) will be available to everyone who has registered.\NFacilitators\NThis series will be facilitated by:\N\NMichael Larson, Executive Director of Blue Lotus Center in West Bend, WI\NGlenna Holstein, Director of Development at Fondy Food Center in Milwaukee, WI\N\NRegistration\N\N$60 for ANCA Members and staff/board of ANCA Organization Members\N$120 for non-members\N\NREGISTER\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Ask a room of 30 people what makes a good leader, and you might get 30 different answers. That’s one of the things that makes leading a team so tricky: different people value different things.
As capable and intentional as you might be, it can feel truly impossible to be the “right” leader for everyone. It’s a pretty intimidating prospect — having to be everything to everyone, see things from all angles, make all the decisions, as just one person?
Here's the good news: we’re convinced that you don’t have to do it all. In fact, it can be more effective, more fulfilling, more equitable, and more motivating when you share leadership on your team.
Join us for this series where we will explore why and how to share leadership on your own team, learn practical tools to use in our own organizations, and practice strategies that can make all of us better leaders — together!
Anyone in a leadership position at a nature center or related environmental organization.
This virtual ANCA CONNECTS series takes place in three parts:
Time for each session: 10-11:30am AKT / 11am-12:30pm PT / 12-1:30pm MT / 1-2:30pm CT / 2-3:30pm ET
This series takes place on Zoom. Each session will feature a presentation by the facilitators, followed by facilitated discussions with peers. After each session, a recording of the presentation (approximately 45 minutes each) will be available to everyone who has registered.
This series will be facilitated by:
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. ANCA Members receive a 50% discount code; if you are a member and don't have the code, please email Daniel.
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T151236Z SEQUENCE:504142 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:497 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2023/DSC00337_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2023/DSC00337_web.jpg X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260528T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260528T133000 UID:E4EC4B0F-2ACE-4CDB-A7D9-DF6BEAF1EE5F SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Executive Leaders – Building a Positive Culture CREATED:20260227T194804Z DTSTAMP:20260227T194804Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/executive-leaders-05-2026 DESCRIPTION:I recently came across a list of traits for nonprofit leaders. One really stuck with me: Builds a positive culture.\NA good leader creates a place for everyone, aligned around shared values and common goals. It’s not about building something for the leader. It’s about the entire group. Easier said than done.\NAs executive leaders, we carry the responsibility for shaping culture, often without the time, space, or a sounding board to step back and really think it through. Culture shows up in everything: how decisions are made, how conflict is handled, how people feel when they come to work, and whether they choose to stay.\NIn this Executive Leaders CONNECTS session, we’ll step out of the day-to-day and into conversation with peers who understand the weight of that responsibility. Together, we’ll explore:\N\NWhat does a “positive culture” actually look like in practice?\NWhere are we getting it right and where are we struggling?\NHow do we intentionally lead culture, especially in times of stress or uncertainty?\NWhat small shifts can make a meaningful difference?\N\NThis is not a presentation, it’s a facilitated peer conversation. A space to think out loud, share honestly, and learn from others who are navigating the same challenges.\NBecause building a healthy, aligned culture isn’t something you have to figure out alone.\NThis program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.\NWho Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members. (Not a member? Join here.)\NFacilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NRegistration: $20\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:I recently came across a list of traits for nonprofit leaders. One really stuck with me: Builds a positive culture.
A good leader creates a place for everyone, aligned around shared values and common goals. It’s not about building something for the leader. It’s about the entire group. Easier said than done.
As executive leaders, we carry the responsibility for shaping culture, often without the time, space, or a sounding board to step back and really think it through. Culture shows up in everything: how decisions are made, how conflict is handled, how people feel when they come to work, and whether they choose to stay.
In this Executive Leaders CONNECTS session, we’ll step out of the day-to-day and into conversation with peers who understand the weight of that responsibility. Together, we’ll explore:
This is not a presentation, it’s a facilitated peer conversation. A space to think out loud, share honestly, and learn from others who are navigating the same challenges.
Because building a healthy, aligned culture isn’t something you have to figure out alone.
This program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.
Who Should Attend: This conversation is exclusively for Executive Directors/CEOs/Top Managers who are current ANCA members. (Not a member? Join here.)
Facilitator: Jen Levy, ANCA Executive Director
Registration: $20
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer, at membership@natctr.org.
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T190910Z SEQUENCE:4231266 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:154 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/Smiley_Bo_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/Smiley_Bo_web.jpg X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260611T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260611T133000 UID:80CAF7FD-AB1E-4785-BE7C-36C226B30A06 SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: Marketing Jump-Start – Go From Marketing Overwhelm to Marketing Fit CREATED:20260409T152301Z DTSTAMP:20260409T152301Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/marketing-jump-start DESCRIPTION:If marketing has ever felt overwhelming, inconsistent, or something you’re always ‘meaning to get to,’ you’re not alone. Many mission-driven organizations find themselves stuck — doing a little here and there — but never quite getting it right or building momentum.\NIn this workshop, we’ll lay the groundwork for marketing that feels clear, manageable, and effective. We’ll unpack the common misconceptions that make marketing feel harder than it needs to be and speak directly to the challenges many teams experience, from lack of time to lack of clarity and resources.\NAnd here’s the good news: clarity is where marketing pain points evaporate.\NTogether, we’ll focus on getting you set up right from the start. How to bring clarity to your brand, your message, your audience, and your priorities — so you can move faster, make more confident decisions, and use time and resources more effectively in marketing and beyond.\NFrom this workshop you can expect to gain a practical system and punchlist of 7 steps you can take to create a marketing foundation — even if you’re starting from scratch. \NThis is a feel-good session designed to help you stop spinning your wheels, build confidence in your message, and move forward with a sense of direction. Because the goal isn’t to do more marketing. It’s to do the right marketing with consistency, intention, and ease. \NJoin us to get started — and to keep your marketing turned ‘ON.’ \NThis program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.\NPresenter\NKat Rothstein is the Founder of Digital Pollen Collective, a creative Collective that helps nonprofits create their best first impression and digital front door. With a background in marketing, film, and brand activations for clients like Google, Nike, and HBO – Kat now brings for-profit strategy and talent to mission-driven teams, helping them create their voice, visuals, and web presence that pull people in. She has served on 3 nonprofit Boards, and her work has been honored with multiple Web Excellence wins, Webby nominations, and branding wins from the Society of Typographic Arts. She is an English major by heart (and education), and is honored to do the work she does – which she describes as 'helping nonprofits meet themselves, with clarity and consensus.'\NRegistration\N\N$20 for ANCA Members and staff/board of ANCA Organization Members\N$40 for non-members\N\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. Members receive a 50% discount code — please email Daniel if you need the code. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:If marketing has ever felt overwhelming, inconsistent, or something you’re always ‘meaning to get to,’ you’re not alone. Many mission-driven organizations find themselves stuck — doing a little here and there — but never quite getting it right or building momentum.
In this workshop, we’ll lay the groundwork for marketing that feels clear, manageable, and effective. We’ll unpack the common misconceptions that make marketing feel harder than it needs to be and speak directly to the challenges many teams experience, from lack of time to lack of clarity and resources.
And here’s the good news: clarity is where marketing pain points evaporate.
Together, we’ll focus on getting you set up right from the start. How to bring clarity to your brand, your message, your audience, and your priorities — so you can move faster, make more confident decisions, and use time and resources more effectively in marketing and beyond.
From this workshop you can expect to gain a practical system and punchlist of 7 steps you can take to create a marketing foundation — even if you’re starting from scratch.
This is a feel-good session designed to help you stop spinning your wheels, build confidence in your message, and move forward with a sense of direction. Because the goal isn’t to do more marketing. It’s to do the right marketing with consistency, intention, and ease.
Join us to get started — and to keep your marketing turned ‘ON.’
This program takes place on Zoom, and will not be recorded.
Kat Rothstein is the Founder of Digital Pollen Collective, a creative Collective that helps nonprofits create their best first impression and digital front door. With a background in marketing, film, and brand activations for clients like Google, Nike, and HBO – Kat now brings for-profit strategy and talent to mission-driven teams, helping them create their voice, visuals, and web presence that pull people in. She has served on 3 nonprofit Boards, and her work has been honored with multiple Web Excellence wins, Webby nominations, and branding wins from the Society of Typographic Arts. She is an English major by heart (and education), and is honored to do the work she does – which she describes as 'helping nonprofits meet themselves, with clarity and consensus.'
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. Members receive a 50% discount code — please email Daniel if you need the code.
LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T203125Z SEQUENCE:18504 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:137 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/images/2025_Summit-53_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/images/2025_Summit-53_web.jpg X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260709T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260709T133000 UID:3F3C1C60-F905-49D5-8FA2-B3934A7837AA SUMMARY:ANCA CONNECTS: New Member Orientation CREATED:20211104T200245Z DTSTAMP:20211104T200245Z URL:https://natctr.org/events/calendar/new-members-07-26 DESCRIPTION:Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:\N\NANCA's virtual and in-person programs\NExclusive resources for ANCA members\NNetworking and mentorship opportunities with nature center professionals\NConnecting with other ANCA member organizations\NANCA's mission and core values\N\NAs part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.\NThis program will be hosted by:\N\NJen Levy, ANCA Executive Director\NDan Auer, ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services \N\NThis free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.\NREGISTER HERE\N \NIf you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded. X-ALT-DESC;FMTTYPE=text/html:Have you joined ANCA as a member within the past year? Join us for this New Member Orientation. We will introduce our programs, services, and staff, and share how you can maximize your membership benefits. This will cover:
As part of this orientation, we'd also like to hear from you about the resources you need to be successful in your work, and how ANCA can best support you as a member. We’ll have time as well for you to meet other new members so you can build connections and expand your peer network.
This program will be hosted by:
This free CONNECTS will be held via Zoom. Please complete a registration to receive the Zoom link.
If you have questions, please contact ANCA Director of Programs & Member Services Daniel Auer at membership@natctr.org. This CONNECTS program will not be recorded.
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T205545Z SEQUENCE:137379180 X-ACCESS:1 X-HITS:301 X-COLOR:3366cc X-IMAGE-FULL:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2025/Pictures/2025_Summit-72_web.jpg X-IMAGE-INTRO:https://natctr.org/images/Events/Summit/2025/Pictures/2025_Summit-72_web.jpg X-SHOW-END-TIME:1 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR