Has your chapter ever considered starting a nature center? Now may be the time to consider it more seriously! The Audubon Centers Network has launched and all chapters are invited to participate in this exciting grassroots initiative.

Audubon Centers are to be "recognizable places on the landscape" where people of all ages, backgrounds and interests can build an awareness, appreciation, and understanding of birds and other wildlife. Each site within the Network has the flexibility to develop a program that is unique to its own community, yet all Centers will share defining characteristics. All Centers will: 1) play an active role in community-based conservation, stewardship and action; 2) reach out to new, previously under-served audiences; 3) form partnerships with other agencies; and 4) provide a variety of programs, products and services.

Developing an Audubon Center can build closer ties between chapters and local communities, and opens avenues for collaboration with others. Participation in the Centers Network also gives individual sites national exposure through Network-wide marketing and promotions.

The Audubon Centers Advisory Team can assist chapters and other sites with Center development. Team members have worked closely with many in Audubon to develop criteria and an application process for joining the Network. A Centers Tool Kit, designed to aid sites in developing Centers, is also available. Another way to learn more is to attend any or all of the two days of Centers workshops that will be offered during the National Convention.

For More Info, or to receive a complete Centers Info Packet, Contact: Amy Harrison; Audubon Centers; 6420 SW Macadam, #208; Portland, OR 97201; ph: 503/245-2102; FAX: 503/245-2628; e-mail: aharris@teleport.com.