ODC is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature.
This is possible because of people like you...
ODC is enriching the lives of people in our community by connecting people, land and nature. Stories from people like you strengthen our commitment to providing high-quality outdoor education and conserving the land and water resources we all share.
We rely on support from individuals like you to make our work possible. Your support of ODC creates more opportunities for people to experience the power of the outdoors and helps make West Michigan the best place to live, work, play, and learn.
Nature Stories: A Profound Impact
We may never know how someone has been impacted by their experience with ODC, but we strive to be a place where they can connect with nature and each other.
Finding Refuge after Loss
Nancy Rock knew the Outdoor Discovery Center was a lovely place to walk. ODC became an invaluable resource for Nancy as she looked for volunteer opportunities and ways to sustain her physical and mental health after the passing of her husband in 2019. Her engagement with ODC grew as she learned more about ODC through her friendship with a fellow ODC supporter and was inspired to contribute financially to ODC’s mission as well.
“Walking the trails with mom became highlights of our visits to Michigan, especially in the wake of father’s death and during uncertain times in 2020. When we weren’t visiting, we would hear all about the trail she walked, what flowers were blooming, how many birds she spotted, and her encounters with other ODC visitors, one of the most fulfilling parts of her visit. She greeted everyone she met with her big smile and bright cheer, encouraging young and old to cherish the gift of nature, as she walked her favorite trails in all seasons with her trusted walking sticks.
“Shortly after our mom’s unexpected passing in 2022, ODC began a place of refuge for us. Shortly after her death, we set out to walk her favorite path and found it closed for maintenance. We headed down the next open trail and were immediately encircled by two dancing monarchs. We laughed with joy at the delights of nature. What had always been a special place for Mom to share with us and the community became a physical place to feel her presence. We love that it is a resource for learning and a place for the community to connect in nature. We support financially to honor her memory and continue her legacy.
Thank you ODC, in loving memory of our parents, Stan and Nancy Rock.”
~ Julie Rock, Lisa Rock, & Amy Conway, daughters of late supporter Nancy Rock.
ODC is our Reset Button
Jen Johnson and her family relocated to West Michigan, her son attended Little Hawks Discovery Preschool and are regular visitors of the Outdoor Discovery Center. Their son, once a toddler finding comfort in his preschool, now enjoys regular adventures. They still catch frogs and fish, but now they also stop by ODC between his activities for moments of reprieve from busy schedules.
“A few years ago, we relocated to West Michigan from overseas. Our three -year-old son had only ever been in a childcare environment that was 90% outdoors. We were worried that our enriching experience would be hard to replicate. A simple Google search led us to Little Hawks Discovery Preschool and it felt like a perfect fit. With little understanding of the region, knowing a place like Little Hawks existed gave us confidence we’d ‘find our people’ and be able to give our son the outdoor experiences he craved.
“Little did we know, our connection to the Outdoor Discovery Center would flourish and this place would become a cherished hub for our family. Now that our son is eight, we still find ourselves drawn to ODC as a family, creating memories together through all the seasons. Whenever he’s having a bad day, nature helps him feel calm, focused, and happy. ODC is our reset button; it’s where we come to recharge. It’s a place that our son eagerly and pridefully shares with family and friends who come to visit.
“What began as a preschool experience has transformed into a haven for our family and confidence-building place for our son.”
~Jen Johnson, Preschool Family who relocated to West Michigan
Endless Opportunities for Outdoor Adventures and Learning
Brian Lamar, co-owner of CL Construction, has supported ODC Network professionally and personally for many years. Their team has supported every growth period and built or renovated many of the facilities visitors enjoy on a daily basis. Brian and his family have participated in a variety of programming over the years and they continue to visit and participate in events to this day.
“My deep passion for nature and wildlife led me to get involved with ODC. ODC’s passionate and dedicated staff have heightened my enthusiasm for supporting ODC’s mission and have impacted my personal and professional life.
“I love taking my own kids to the trails and enjoying nature with them. There are endless preserves, trails, and wildlife exhibits to enjoy. Getting outside through ODC’s programs has helped us reduce our screen time and create cherished family memories. It is great to see organizations like ODC making outdoor experiences accessible and enjoyable for families. ODC has also helped me grow in awareness about sustainable land management and has heightened my awareness of erosion control efforts on job sites.
Getting to know others involved in ODC’s program and mission has made me proud to be a part of this community and has created a sense of belonging for me, my family, and my business.”