In 1987 Nancy Summers and Peter Gruchawka went forward with a dream to build a wild animal rescue facility in
Northern California. This endeavor started in their home in Kenwood, just
a few miles outside of Santa Rosa in the lovely wine country.
Due to the fact that Sonoma County was becoming more and more populated by
humans, there was a great need to focus on the quickly disappearing animal
habitats near their own front yard.
After the extensive protocol of becoming a Non-Profit organization; then requesting permits from the Fish and Game Department and completing several classes on wild animal rehabilitation, the Wildlife Center was ready to go into action.
In the early 1990's the Center was able to move into it's new location in the forested area of Kenwood. This facility is still the Wildlife Center's home. Two rehabilitation barns have been renovated to house large birds so that they can begin get exercise and practice flying before their big release day. When they are finally ready, the big doors to the barn are rolled open and they are free to go. Rehabbers continue putting out food in the opened barn just as before in case life becomes too rough for the newly released birds so they can return for shelter and dinner.
With the help of other selfless people, thousands of animals have been rescued, rehabilitated and released back into the wild. In many instances the cause of illness was researched and reported to appropriate authorities. In the cases of eagles landing on the same high wires and being electrocuted, the power company was confronted and changes were made. Through the education department, countless children and adult organizations have been made more aware of the fragility of the wild animals that still survive.
Now in 2007, the founders are making plans to re-locate to their dream property in Mendocino County. The new Board of Directors consists of the perfect people to continue the rescue, rehabilitation and education of the masses.
Officers of the Board of Directors
Michael Knight President Board of Directors
Michael Knight is a long time Sonoma County resident, interested in animal welfare and experienced spearheading long term projects providing development of much needed wetlands. His dedication and ability to carry out plans has already made a huge progressive impact as of President of the Board.
Dr. Howard Rosner, DVM Vice President Board of Directors
Dr. Howard Rosner is a local veterinarian living in the town of Sonoma. He joined the Wildlife Center as a board member in January 2007. He has practiced in Sonoma for 15 years at the Sonoma Veterinary Clinic. He has always enjoyed working with domestic companion animals and birds and exotic pets as well. He has worked with all kinds of wild animals from orphaned baby birds to injured deer, and other larger mammals. His experience includes working at the SF Zoo and the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, as well as wild animal parks in Florida. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1988. He has remained committed to wildlife care and conservation, and is very excited to be a part of the team at the Wildlife Center in Kenwood. His interests include both international wildlife conservation as well as local wildlife awareness and rehabilitation.
Dr. Rosner has generously offers the use of his clinic and staff to receive, evaluate, and treat rescued animals.
Jerry Passalacqua Treasurer Board of Directors
Jerry has served as an advisor to the Center since 2007 and was elected Treasurer at the beginning of 2009. Jerry has put in many volunteer hours in the financial realm of the Center and now holds the position of Treasurer.
Star Dewar Secretary
Star had served in many different capacities over the nineteen years of being a volunteer as well as running her photography studio nearby. Her favorite job of interacting with children during her educational presentations to schools and other organization regarding appreciation and conservation of nature. In 2007, she was appointed Administrator by the board who were planning to retire. She continues to serve in this role as well as Secretary of the Board of Directors, web master, fund raising and various other committees.