Waukesha, WI – Waukesha County’s Retzer Nature Center is thrilled to be a recipient of Kohl’s Hometown Giving Program grant that was awarded to the Friends of Retzer Nature Center to support the current Discovery Trail project. The Friends of Retzer Nature Center has transferred the $25,000 donation to the project for the design and construction of educational signage along the trail and at the various exploration stations.

“The donation from Kohl’s Hometown Giving Program is another great example of the corporate engagement culture we are fortunate to have in Waukesha County. Businesses understand that the quality of amenities in a community play an important role in attracting and retaining engaged employees,” said Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow.

The Discovery Trail celebrated a Grand Opening on June 22, 2022, after the completion of the second phase of the project. The Kohl’s Hometown Giving Program grant will allow for the implementation of educational signage, which will complement and enhance all of the features and amenities that were constructed during the three phases of the project.

“We are thankful for Kohl’s continued philanthropic work in our community,” said Larry Kascht, President of the Friends of Retzer Nature Center. “Their support helps the Nature Center provide access into nature and educational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. The Friends is so pleased to be able to accept this donation to help advance the project further, faster.”

The Multi-Phase Project

• Phase 1: Revitalizing and expanding accessibility of the paved trail with support from Waukesha Rotary Club and the Friends of Retzer Nature Center. The project was also supported by Community Development Block Grant funding to ensure ADA accessibility.
• Phase 2: Gateway feature, exploration stations, natural stone outcrop seating wall and native plantings along the trail for outdoor education, sensory-based play experiences, and STEM activities.
• Phase 3: Wing Span Station, Spider Web Station, and Mobile Sensory Station for programs were added. Finally, the Educational Signage supported by Kohl’s Hometown Giving Program grant.

Learn more about the Discovery Trail Project online at www.waukeshacounty.gov/retzernaturecenter.

Learn more about the Friends of Retzer Nature Center online at https://friendsofretzer.org.