Barb's Monthly Message
Welcome to February!
It’s a perfect time to talk about our shared love of the natural world! Everything we do here at the ELC is designed to foster human connections to nature. Propelled by our strengthened emotional connection, we hope to inspire a renewed commitment to learning, growing, and acting as stewards for the precious ecosystems we call home.
At the heart of what we do is a simple belief: nature isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a connection you feel. This month, we’ve curated experiences that span the spectrum from high-energy adventure to quiet, artistic reflection.
I often see visitors arrive here at the ELC with their shoulders tight and their eyes on their phones, only to see them return from a paddle, boat ride or walk with a completely different posture - relaxed, present, and restored. That transformation is exactly why we are here. Thank you for being part of our story. Your support ensures these boardwalk trails stay open, these waters stay protected, and these connections stay strong.
Click to Read Full Message
Yours in Service,
Barbara Schlitt Ford Executive Director Environmental Learning Center
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As a non-profit that receives no county, state, or federal funding, the ELC relies on community donations in order to operate year round. |
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RSVP for the Artist Talks Here RSVP for FREE Outdoor Movie Nights Here |
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February & March at a Glance |
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February 1 - Sunset/Full Moon Kayak Tour 2 - Sunset/Full Moon Kayak Tour 5 - Volunteer Open House 8 - Sunrise Kayak Tour 11 - EcoAction Lagoon Greenway Project 11 - Sunset Kayak Tour 17 - Schumann Travel Photography Talk 18 - Mark Schumann Homeless Project Book Talk 19 - Beginners’ Bird Walk 20 - Sip 'n Shop at J. McLaughlin in Village Shops - Proceeds benefit ELC 21 - Little Wonders 27 - ⭐Free Outdoor Movie - Finding Nemo - RSVP 28 - Dolphin Drift - SUP Yoga (Buy One, Get One HALF Off) 28 - ⭐Free Outdoor Movie - Moana - RSVP
Guided Kayak Excursions February 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20, 21, 24, 27, 28
Art Exhibitions on View in February Derek Gores & “Wild & Beautiful”
March 3 - Sunset/Full Moon Kayak Tour 5 - Volunteer Open House 11 - EcoAction Spoil the Lagoon 11 - Sunset Kayak Tour 14 - Mangroves, Moonlight & Milan 19 - Beginners’ Bird Walk 21 - Little Wonders 21 - Vero Beach KINDness Day (Youth Projects Showcase) 26 - John's Island Artist Meet & Greet 28 - Dolphin Drift - SUP Yoga (Buy One, Get One HALF Off) 30 - Spring Break Camp 31 - Spring Break Camp
Guided Kayak Excursions
March 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29
Art Exhibition on View in March
John's Island Club Artists
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Our signature fundraising event under the stars, featuring an open bar, a sit-down dinner, and dancing to live music. Participation Opportunities - Save the Date ~ April 25 - Join us for a member-only event with music, games, food, and fun!
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ELC Voted Best Tourist Destination on the Treasure Coast Again! |
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We’re honored to share that the Environmental Learning Center has been voted Best Tourist Destination on the Treasure Coast for 2026.
This recognition means even more because it came directly from the people who visit, explore, and learn here. The ELC also received the same award in 2024, and in 2025 was named Best Place for Kids. Thank you for supporting the ELC and helping our mission continue to grow.
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Thank you for making Lagoonapalooza 2026 unforgettable. With more than 2,500 attendees, it was our biggest event yet.
Lagoonapalooza 2027 sponsorships are now open, offering full-year recognition and community impact.
Learn More |
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Explore the Wide Range of ELC Offerings |
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Tap the image to discover fun facts about the different species you can spot on our campus! |
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How Your Legacy Can Shape the Next Generation |
What if the impact you make today could shape how children learn about nature for generations to come?
Read How Here |
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See What Everyone Loved This Month |
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Top Facebook Post - "Join us for..."
Top Instagram Post - "Huge thanks to artist ..."
Every like, comment, follow, and share helps us reach more people with our mission. It’s one of the easiest ways to support the work we do! |
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"We booked a private Mangrove Magic experience as a work celebration, and it completely elevated the night. Paddling through the mangroves after dark felt peaceful, immersive, and genuinely special...nothing like a typical holiday party or group outing. The ELC team made everything easy and welcoming, and the setting created natural moments for connection and conversation that you just don’t get in a restaurant or event space. It was memorable in the best way, and our group is still talking about it weeks later."
More Details |
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We hosted our 2nd Annual Lagoonapalooza |
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| | Full Moon/Sunset Guided Kayak Excursion |
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Help us spread the word! Please forward this newsletter to anyone you think may be interested in our ELC offerings. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Sign up to receive it regularly HERE! |
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Thank you to our partners: Vero Flash & Gould Cooksey Fennell |
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Follow the Environmental Learning Center! |
Environmental Learning Center 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963 DiscoverELC.org 772-589-5050 |
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.” |
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