Centre Wildlife Care

Overview

Centre Wildlife Care (CWC) is a nonprofit organization based in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, sick, and displaced wildlife. Established as a 501(c)(3) entity, CWC operates under tax-exempt status and is entirely funded by donations.

Mission and Activities

CWC's primary mission is to provide professional care to wildlife, ensuring that over 1,500 mammals, birds, and reptiles receive the necessary rehabilitation each year to be released back into their natural habitats. The organization accepts wildlife from Centre County and surrounding areas, collaborating with local rehabilitators when required.

In addition to rehabilitation efforts, CWC engages in educational outreach, offering programs that feature live animals to help raise public awareness about wildlife conservation and the importance of proper wildlife care.

Management and Operations

The organization is run entirely by volunteers, with a significant number of them being students from Penn State University majoring in Wildlife or Pre-veterinary fields. Volunteers assist with various tasks, including feeding, medication administration, cage cleaning, and collecting donations. The organization's founder and director, Robyn Graboski, is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator with extensive experience in the field since 1988.

CWC collaborates with local veterinary services, notably the Animal Medical Hospital in State College, which provides discounted medical care to wildlife under their care. This partnership allows CWC to optimize its limited financial resources while ensuring quality care for the animals.

Facilities

CWC is situated on a 15-acre property that provides pre-release housing for wildlife. The facility operates on an appointment basis to manage animal intake efficiently and ensure proper care for all animals received.

Limitations

CWC is not an animal control agency and does not engage in law enforcement or animal seizure. The organization focuses solely on the rehabilitation of wild animals, and it does not serve as a shelter or adoption facility for domestic pets.

Funding and Support

As a volunteer-driven organization, Centre Wildlife Care relies entirely on public donations and fundraising efforts, receiving no financial support from governmental agencies. This community-based funding model underscores the importance of local support in sustaining its operations and continuing its wildlife care mission.