As the year comes to a close, your support helps make more opportunities possible in 2027.

Dear Friend of Cope,

As we reflect on 2026, we are grateful for another incredible year at Cope Environmental Center. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and community partners, we are reaching more people, creating new opportunities to connect with nature, and making a greater impact than ever before.

This year has been one of growth, progress, and possibility!

In 2026, Cope offered more than 275 educational programs and experiences, serving nearly 6,000 children and adults. Participation in our programs and nature camps continues to grow, both of our major fundraising events exceeded their goals, and more visitors are enjoying the trails and natural beauty of our 130-acre property.

But beyond the numbers, it’s the experiences that remind us why this work matters.

Imagine the excitement of a child holding a frog for the first time, discovering a salamander beneath a log, or learning to build a shelter in the woods. These simple moments spark curiosity, build confidence, and create memories that last a lifetime.

For many children, opportunities like these are rare. In a world increasingly dominated by screens, Cope provides a place where children can simply be kids; to explore, get muddy, use their imaginations, and discover the wonders of nature.

We believe every child deserves these experiences, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

This year, more than 35% of our camp families requested financial assistance, and we anticipate that need will grow in 2027. Schools are also facing tighter budgets and rising transportation costs, making educational field trips increasingly difficult to afford.

We never want a child to miss out because of financial barriers. That’s why expanding camp scholarships and making school field trips more affordable remain among our highest priorities.

Looking ahead to 2027, we are excited about improvements that will make Cope more accessible and welcoming. Our multiphase accessibility project includes a new accessible learning dock at Cooper’s Pond, designated accessible parking, and improved pathways. We are also working toward restoring our west wetland to enhance wildlife habitat and educational opportunities.

As our programs grow, so does the need to invest in the dedicated staff who make these experiences possible. Supporting employee retention, professional development, and additional program staffing will help us continue providing high-quality experiences to more children, families, and adults.

As the year comes to a close, we invite you to make a year-end gift to Cope Environmental Center.

Your generosity will help provide camp scholarships, make school field trips more affordable, support our dedicated staff, and ensure our programs continue to meet the growing needs of our community.

We are proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but there is so much more we can do. With your support, we can continue inspiring curiosity, connecting people with nature, and creating a more sustainable future; one experience at a time.

Thank you for believing in our mission and making this important work possible.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Marcy Crull
Executive Director
Cope Environmental Center