ECWR currently resides in a dilapidated fire station, in an urban environment, scheduled for demolition and condemnation in late 2018 or early 2019. This will leave ECWR without either a rehabilitation facility or an educational one, so the need for this project is critical for the continued viability of the organization, its mission, and the communities it supports. The current building is not suitable for public access and cannot support ECWR’s educational activities. The organization sees the current location as the single most limiting factor in furthering progress, expansion and their ability to support wildlife and education in the communities they serve. Completion of the Education and Outreach Center will allow ECWR to provide in-house educational offerings to include staff, prominent wildlife, conservation, governmental, and educational expert lectures. Additionally, it will provide a location for K-12 conservation educational programs, and volunteer and docent training. Formal, collaborative partnership agreements will be developed with other nonprofits, youth organizations, schools, and other service delivery groups. Through interactive displays, up-close encounters with Refuge Animal Ambassadors of species resident in Northwest Florida, and staff and docent-led classroom and refuge activities, ECWR will finally realize its educational potential for the communities it supports.