Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital got it's start in 1974 when Jean Henry and Ruth Stanwood came to Martin County from Vermont in 1969. They had a ranch filled with animals and the Audubon Society asked Jean if she would be willing to help injured birds. That first year she helped 50 birds paying for everything herself. The number and kinds of patients increased occupying all of their time. Through the years money was raised to start a hospital and volunteers stepped in to ease the load. Although Jean and Ruth have both passed away their legacy lives on as a group of dedicated people continue their mission to aid injured wildlife. For three decades the Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital has been helping care for sick, injured and orphaned wild animal patients, as well as providing information and education for human residents and visitors. They are a non profit corporation. All of their funding comes from privation donations or grants. Their goal is to rehabilitate and return animals to the wild. They are the only wildlife hospital serving Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, Okeechobee, and Palm Beach counties. They care for hundreds of animals a year. Some of their patients have included bobcats, alligators, and many species of birds. Their work is especially important because around 10 percent of the animals they treat are on the endangered, threatened, or species of special concern lists. I had the opportunity to visit the hospital during their 45th annual open house on Saturday. The community was invited to explore their 300 acres and meet their wildlife ambassadors. The had live music, food, and vendors. Admission was free but I was more than happy to donate so they can keep up their mission of rescuing animals. Donations are more important than ever as the endeavor to raise enough money to build a new wildlife center. I had a great day visiting the animals and touring the facility. I hope everyone who is able to gives money to this worthy organization so they can reach their goal of a new facility that will allow them to help even more animals. Read Less