Wonder Gardens offers Teen Wonder Guides program

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. - Aug. 8, 2023 - PRLog -- The Wonder Gardens is offering a Teen Wonder Guide program for youth ages 14 through 17, with fall and spring programs on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

The program is designed for teens who are passionate about wildlife and conservation, learning public speaking, independently motivated, enthusiastic to work with guests of all ages, and responsible and courteous. The program offers exclusive educational experiences, community service hours, and job and life skills.

"We continue to add experiences for all ages as part of our mission to educate about the region and wildlife, as well as inspire conservation," said Katie Grimes, education and volunteer manager. "Enhanced educational experiences are vital to our commitment to the community."

Participants must complete an application with a guardian's signature and attend an information session and orientation program. Participants receive a Wonder Gardens volunteer T-shirt. The schedule includes lunch-and-learn sessions.

The fall program is Sept. 13-Nov. 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays or Saturdays. The fall information session for parents and teens is Aug. 19, with orientation for teens only on Sept. 13 and 16.

The spring program will be Feb. 28 to April 28. The spring information session for parents and teens is Feb. 10, and teen-only orientations are Feb. 28 and March 2.

The eight-week fall session is $150 for non-members of the Garden or $125 for members and covers staff time and educational sessions. Need-based scholarships are available.

Eligible teens will be invited to the information session, and accepted teens will be contacted following the information session. Session spots are limited. For information, visit wondergardens.org/teen-wonder-guides/. (https://wondergardens.org/teen-wonder-guides/)

About Wonder Gardens

The Wonder Gardens, a charitable zoological park and botanical garden in Bonita Springs, is home to rescued birds and reptiles nestled among sprawling banyan trees and plantings. While preserving the best of this site's 86-year history, the nonprofit cares for rescued, rehabilitated, and non-releasable animals, is upgrading wildlife enclosures and growing the botanical beauty of the property, while delivering education programs and events and further engaging the community to enjoy this jewel in historic Downtown Bonita Springs. The Wonder Gardens at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs is one of the few remaining cornerstones of Old Florida, an enduring symbol of the history of the region, as well as a resource for learning about the environment and wildlife. For information, visit wondergardens.org or call 239-992-2591.