Future Goals
We are well on our way to realizing the goals of our 2016-2020 Strategic Plan. This Plan is further complemented by the launch of our Third Century Plan Campaign and its goal to reinvigorate the EcoTarium campus and provide a New England-focused, thematically cohesive educational experience by our 200th anniversary in 2025. Our strategic goals are advanced through:
- Enhancing guest amenities and experiences indoors and outdoors • Increasing accessibility and diversity in all aspects throughout the institution
- Raising awareness around the importance of science and nature
- Developing long-term asset replacement and acquisition plans
- Opening Wild Cat Station in 2019 to bring mountain lions to Worcester
Fundraising Events/Opportunities
Great Pumpkin Nights, October 12-14, 19-21, and 26-28, 2018: Come to the largest Halloween celebration for families in Central Massachusetts. Wander the EcoTarium grounds to enjoy trick-or-treating and see striking funkin displays of dinosaurs, safari animals, and so much more.
Earth Day Celebration, April 19, 2019: Don’t miss Worcester’s annual Earth Day Celebration with lots of indoor and outdoor Earth-friendly happenings, hands-on activities, and entertainment.
A Night at the Museum, April 27, 2019: Spend a night among the stars at our signature fundraiser where we raise funds to inspire new generations’ passion for science and nature.
Giving Opportunities
The EcoTarium’s generous donors are essential to helping us deliver on our mission and fulfill our role as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education resource. Ways you and your business can be a part of our giving family include:
- Join our prestigious 1825 Society to support the museum and your local social service agency
- Become an EcoTarium member and enjoy year-round benefits, including free general admission
- Donate to our Annual Fund and check with your employer for matching gifts
- Become a corporate member
- Make a stock gift or consider adding a provision for the EcoTarium in your will to create a lasting legacy
- Sponsor one of our many family-oriented community events or interactive exhibits To purchase a membership or make a donation, please visit us at ecotarium.org.
Volunteer Opportunities
We have volunteer opportunities to fit a multitude of interests, skills, and time commitments. As a volunteer, you will work alongside our talented staff in the areas that interest you most. Opportunities include:
- Transcribing our collection to make it more accessible to the general public
- Representing the EcoTarium at outreach events, fairs, and festivals
- Maintaining our property or caring for our wildlife
- Applying administrative and organizational skills in our offices
- Supporting special events like school vacation weeks, Earth Day, and Great Pumpkin Nights We have service opportunities available for individual volunteers as well as for corporate groups and organizations. If you want to put your interests and talents to work for us, please complete a volunteer application on our website or contact Teri Lynes, coordinator of volunteer resources, at tlynes@ecotarium.org.
“I grew up in Worcester visiting the EcoTarium with my family and have many fond memories of my time there. Now, I visit with my daughter as she learns about science and nature and builds memories of her own. The EcoTarium is not only a place for learning, but also a place for families to explore and create together.”
– Paul Belsito, Board Chair
