Lost funding puts Think Wild’s wildlife education program at risk

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Think Wild's educational outreach program is at risk of disappearing. The wildlife rehabilitation organization lost $16,000 in grant funding over the last two weeks.

Based in Jefferson County and and Warm Springs schools, Think Wild offers these hands-on learning experiences to schools at no cost. The program provides free weekly classes to local students to teach them about the animals and plant of Central Oregon. The outreach program specifically serves Title I schools.

The program was already facing a potential scale-back after the loss of a first grant. Following the second rejection, the organization reported that the entire outreach effort is now at risk of being canceled.

Molly Honea serves as the communications manager for Think Wild. She noted that while receiving occasional rejections is a standard part of the grant process, this is something more.

"You know, with grant funding, you're used to getting some yeses and getting some nos. But two in a row starts to make you feel a little anxious," Honea said. "So we're we're definitely hoping to do some community fundraising and get some support from the people around here, because if we want to be able to offer this programing, we gotta have money to do so."

Each rural program session in Central Oregon typically costs between $200 and $300 to operate. This figure is basedon required for materials for every class provided to the schools.

Organization officials stated that grants are becoming increasingly competitive as federal and state funding sources disappear. This shift has resulted in a higher number of nonprofit organizations applying for the same limited pools of money.

Think Wild is now turning to community fundraising to bridge the funding gap. The organization is seeking donations of any amount to ensure the wildlife learning programs can continue in the classroom.

To support Think Wild, visit their website.