Photo credit: Holly Walz
PhotoCred:BrookeGilley
A NOTE FROM CARLY AND CINDY
To Our Stakeholders, Partners, and Friends,
We are excited to provide highlights from a recordbreaking 2025 with a positive impact in the areas of education, land stewardship, community science, accessibility, volunteerism, Friends of Wehr memberships, and fundraising events. This includes:
Over 2,200 Friends of Wehr memberships
Growth in attendance, sponsorships and revenue from our Friends of Wehr fundraising events, including: Native Plant Sale, Ladies Night Out and Cider Sunday.
Increased Giving First campaign donations in support of growing our Kids in the Park scholarship program. Growth in visitors to more than 200,000 people.
As we look to the future, our focus is on continuing to support our mission to inspire current and future generations to explore and value the natural world. We will continue to reach for our big, audacious goal of being a leading destination in the Midwest for providing equitable access to nature for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
We want to express our gratitude for your trust and ongoing support. Thank you for making an impact by becoming a member, volunteer and donor, and for telling your family and friends about Wehr! Together, we have created a strong foundation for the future.
In Partnership,
Cindy Lorentzen, Friends of Wehr President Carly Hintz, Wehr Nature Center Director
CARLY HINTZ
CINDY LORENTZEN
E D U C A T I O N
The Wehr Naturalist team turns curiosity into discovery. Through interactive programs rooted in inquiry and outdoor exploration, we help learners of all ages ask questions, get their hands dirty, and leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
EDUCATION IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
20,995
students, you adults and fa participated hands-on environmental education programs
350
150 individuals were served through the Spark! program for adults with dementia and their care partners
students from 136 schools engaged in outdoor learning (47 groups utilized Kids in the Park scholarship funds)
4,269
7,862 community members came to the Center and Friends of Wehr special events
veterans attended
31 Operation Recon Nature programs
20
new WI Master Naturalists trained by Wehr Facilitators and statewide specialists
L A N D S T E W A R D S H I P A N D
C O M M U N I T Y S C I E N C E
With the help of Wehr’s Land Manager, Natural Areas Team and volunteers, our stewardship efforts strengthen the health and resilience of our landscapes through targeted invasive species removal, expanded species monitoring, and thoughtful, long-term habitat planning—ensuring our natural areas continue to thrive for both wildlife and community.
106 acres cle of invasiv species a active restoration
trees and shrubs planted in addition to 900 forbs
15
2
new species observed (Juncus nodosus) and transplanted (Ranunculus cymbalaria)
2 added a second acoustic monitoring station for frogs and bats
415 new partnerships with workforce development programsNatural Resources Foundation and UWM CES program
2 vascular plant species observed by the volunteer Phenology group
A
C C E
S S I B I L I T Y
Our team opened more paths to nature for more people. From record-breaking all-terrain wheelchair use to expanded Spanish translation and growing community partnerships, we made meaningful strides in ensuring everyone feels welcome, represented, and able to explore.
ACCESSIBILITY IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
86
1.75
1 community outreach events reached 3,565 people
days the Access Ability WI allterrain wheelchair was used (66 people) miles of trails woodchipped by the Wheel and Chip volunteers feet of accessible boardwalk expanded by volunteers bridge restored to prevent trail closures by Mortenson Construction
80
27 regular monthly disability groups visited Wehr year-round
4
V O L U N T E E R S
Volunteers carried us through challenge and change —restoring the land after historic flooding, celebrating the retirement of a beloved coordinator, and embracing new leadership. Expanded partnerships also brought in younger volunteers, building fresh energy for the future.
16,380
550
total estimated hours of volunteerism equal to 8 fulltime employees volunteers utilized for special events new volunteers were welcomed to the Wehr Team local students volunteered at Wehr 96 Public Allies (AmeriCorps) partnership brings full-time position
92
NEW Trail Ambassador volunteer hours logged 796
F I N A N C I A L S
Friends of Wehr’s assets grew significantly in 2025, to $708,823. This is a more than 22% gain from 2024. FOW’s cash position is strong, which we view as appropriate in the face of financial uncertainty, and the organization has virtually no liabilities.
In 2024, FOW received a transformative bequest of $350,000, which gave us capital to fund long-term funding and initiatives, some of which started in 2025 During 2025, we also saw our revenue return to healthy normal levels, with a balance of revenue sources including individual and corporate contributions, membership dues, and revenue from special events.
Expenses grew in 2025 as we put to work some of the extra capital we received in 2024. Key increases in expenses were attributable to salaries, increase in staff, property improvements and development, and the expansion and improvement of program educational materials.
F I N A N C I A L S
The Milwaukee County Parks team supports the long-term sustainability of the Center through a public service model that benefits the entire Milwaukee community. By offering naturalist-led programs, facility rentals, parking, and permits, revenue generated is fully reinvested into Wehr Nature Center. These contributions not only sustain daily operations but also advance our mission connecting people to the natural world and inspiring current and future generations to love, value, and protect nature.
Summary of 2025 Revenue
In 2025, Wehr Nature Center demonstrated strong financial performance, achieving a 12.7% increase in revenue compared to 2024. This growth was driven by higher program income, along with increased facility rentals and permit activity. In total, the Center generated $156,000 in revenue through Milwaukee County an investment that directly supports its operations and advances its mission to serve the community.
M E M B E R S H I P
Friends of Wehr was proud to be supported by 2,233 memberships, representing a strong and growing community of individuals and families who believe in the power of nature, education, and conservation. Each membership plays a vital role in sustaining the programs, habitats, and experiences that make Wehr Nature Center a place for all to explore, learn, and connect.
FRIENDS OF WEHR MEMBERSHIPS
BY THE NUMBERS
In 2025, Friends of Wehr reached an all-time high in membership, reflecting a 4% increase over 2024. This continued growth highlights the deepening commitment of our community and reinforces the impact of collective support in advancing our mission for generations to come.
5 WAYS TO SUPPORT FRIENDS OF WEHR
Friends of Wehr Nature Center thrives because of a passionate community of supporters who believe in the power of nature, education, and conservation. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been part of our community for years, there are many meaningful ways to support our mission.
Shop the Nature Store
Every purchase at our Nature Store directly supports the Wehr Nature Center. From nature-inspired gifts to books and locally sourced items, shopping with us is a simple way to give back.
Become a Member
Membership is one of the most impactful ways to support Friends of Wehr. Members enjoy benefits like free parking, discounts on programs and events, and exclusive perks—while helping sustain the programs and experiences that make Wehr Nature Center so special.
Attend an Event
From seasonal fundraising events like Cider Sunday to educational workshops and family programs, attending events helps bring our community together while supporting our work. Your participation fuels our ability to offer engaging, high-quality programming year-round.
Donate
Donations are used to fund every aspect of the Wehr Nature Center including accessibility, natural areas stewardship, children’s programming, special public events, summer interns, Wehr Outreach, live animals, and education.
Volunteer
Volunteers are at the heart of Friends of Wehr. Whether assisting at events, supporting programs, or helping behind the scenes, your time and talents mak
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Completed 5-Year Site Improvement Plan
We are excited to share our 5-Year Site Improvement Plan, which was generated with inputs from a committee made up of staff, Friends of Wehr volunteers, and Milwaukee County Parks representatives, as well as a survey of Wehr visitors. The plan was created to proactively address the needs of the nature center which has grown in its programming, visitation, and rentals significantly throughout the last several decades.
Photos shared are conceptual designs only. Visit www friendsofwehr org for current plans
STEWARDSHIP GARAGE & SERVICE YARD
Purpose:
•Secure equipment storage
•Positioned discreet of the Visitor Center
•Provides a gathering area for volunteers
Estimated Completion: 2026
OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
Purpose:
•Grow capacity for programmable space to fulfill the center’s mission
•Increase fees from rentals
Estimated Completion: 2027
AMPHITHEATER SHADE COVER
Purpose:
•Protection from sun over seating
•Protection over stage
•Increase fees from rentals
Estimated Completion: 2028
MILWAUKEE COUNTY PARKS STAFF
Carly Hintz
Howard Aprill
Jan Alexander
Breeann Behrendt
Emily Brown
Bev Bryant
Sophie Detweiler
Mary Gaub
Brooke Gilley
Carol Howard
Andrew Karpek
Mary Potter
Justin Propp
Sarah Stokes
Holly Walz
Joyce Williams
Jeff Veglahn
BOARD OF DIRECTORS as of April 2025
OFFICERS
President, Cindy Lorentzen
President Emeritus, Greg Joers
Vice President, Ted Bosch
Vice President, Jim Gorski
Treasurer, Jim Wroblewski
Secretary, Elizabeth Terasek
FRIENDS OF WEHR STAFF
Carol Howard
Jessica Del Toro
Rosie Garcia Carranza
CENTER AWARDS
DIRECTORS
Melissa Deutsch
Emily Laak-Loeding
Jennifer Lazewski
Joe Roubik
Peter Hintze
Amy Shambarger
Tim McCollow
Lucas Amell
Paul Brings
National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award: Transforming Public Spaces: The Wehr Nature Center Accessibility and Engagement Initiative
$8,000 - $17,000
Susan Jensen
Mary MacLaren
$2000 - $5999
Ted Bosch
Jennifer Peric
John Gelhaart
Ted Bosch
Audrey Reineck
Betty A A Storey
Patricia Bantz
$1000 - $1999
Ken Schoberg
Ronald Rebernick
Tom Stock
John Wierschem
Judith Kesser
Daniel Martin
Dave Soike
Scott Bowe
Mary MacLaren
Susan Jensen
Mary Koziboski
D O N O R L I S T
INDIVIDUAL DONOR LISTING
$500 - $999
Chris Zeitler
Dave Soike
Mary Zaborski
Jeanne Meyer
Steven and Jeanne Giving Fund (in memory Zoltan Kekesi)
Mary MacLaren
Emery Schmid
Marty Posekany
Colleen Resendiz-Hello
Realty
Non Member Anonymous
Gerald Cullen
Steven Kammers
Dee Schroeder
Marie Cimpl
Carlen Schenk
Gregory Osborne
$250 - $499
Bob Sherwood
Sherper's, Inc
Jerome Weis
Jeff Nesta
Carol Brown
Gary Brummeyer
Jan Raz
Janet Tesch
$1- $249 13,960 donors
IN-KIND DONATIONS
$1000 AND GREATER:
Mary MacLaren
CORPORATE DONOR LISTING
Aon Bluemels Broadcom
Culver's of Franklin
Edward Jones
Engage Franklin and the Tourism Commission for Franklin WI
Festival Foods
Garden Club of Greater Milwaukee
Krause Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, Inc.
Michelle's Action Angels
Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewage District
MMSD
Moneywise Planning Group, LLC
Retzer Nature Center
SEWISC
Stu's Flooring
Thomas and Yvonne McCollow Fund
UHG
Waukesha County Community Foundation
WI Metro Audubon Society
Wild Ones Natural Landscaping
WPS Reptiles LLC
