Our Work
Environmental and Wildlife Advocacy
Locally and statewide, the Friends group is a voice for environmental conservation, wildlife protection, and biodiversity. Through our representation in the Everglades Coalition, we are active participants on issues related to the health and restoration of the Everglades and its habitat, and supporting positions taken by the Coalition. We consider ourselves to be the citizen keepers of the Northern Everglades, and want people of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds to experience the magic of nature and the outdoors at the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge.
Education for All Ages
As the first National Wildlife Refuge Friends organization in the nation, our educational roots run deep. Education has been a primary theme throughout our history, with numerous scientists and naturalists contributing to the board and its initiatives. Our volunteers also provide guided tours of the Refuge grounds to visitors of all ages.
Fundraising
Friends of the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge was created to support the conservation and education missions of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. We do that through fundraising and philanthropic donations. We are committed to supporting the 145,000 acre refuge in every facet of operation where government budgets fall short. Our work connects to that of the larger Everglades restoration and preservation mission. We promote a better understanding and appreciation of the natural history and environment of the Refuge through community outreach such as Pocket Refuges and Floating Wetland projects. Friends is a non-profit 501C3 organization with a tax ID # 59-2240895
Member Services
The Education/Visitor Center is staffed by knowledgable volunteeers responsible for ensuring member and visitor experiences are smooth and positive, maintaining the personal touch that has been a hallmark of the organization over the decades.
Managing and Staffing the Nature Store
The Nature Store in the Visitor Center is entirely managed and staffed by the Friends board and volunteers. Profits are used to directly fund improvements at the Refuge. Our focus is primarily on Everglades-related and branded merchandise, with something for all ages in a variety of price ranges.
Everglades Days
Our popular Everglades Day in February is a series of events for children and adults. The Refuge is now considered an Urban Refuge, one of only 14 in the country. Its primary focus will be on underserved youth in the surrounding communities. A concerted outreach effort to schools, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Recreation departments in local communities is being conducted to assess interest in partnering with us. Everglades Days include on-site events featuring kids fishing clinics, archery, crafts, and games. Adults will enjoy a series of lectures, guided tours, demonstrations and more.