Stokes Nature Center Strategic Plan

"The thing I enjoyed most was working with children in the outdoors, and to see their excitement grow."

Allen Stokes

"The Allen and Alice Stokes Nature Center helps children and persons of all ages learn about and appreciate our natural world."

Alice Stokes - March 2002



Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide opportunities for students of all ages to explore, learn about, and develop appreciation and stewardship for our natural world.


Value Statements

The Stokes Nature Center believes in the dignity and interdependence of our human and ecological communities and is committed to integrity in:

  • Education about the natural world that is experiential, promotes life-long learning, develops critical thinking, is based on sound scientific principles, integrates arts, culture and history and fosters a sense of wonder.
  • Community by being an active member in our community; respecting and incorporating our diverse, educational, cultural, historical, regional, and religious heritage; celebrating the beauty of our land and unique natural heritage which sustains and nurtures the human spirit.
  • Stewardship by serving as a model for sustainable practices, promoting understanding of our impacts and dependency on natural systems, and exploring solutions for our successful human integration into these systems.
  • Professionalism by believing in and adhering to the highest standards in conducting our fiscal and professional responsibilities.


Vision Statements

The vision of the Stokes Nature Center is to:

  • Provide and expand experiential environmental education programs that are regionally recognized for excellence.
  • Continue to develop our physical facilities to meet our educational needs, exemplify our stewardship commitment, allow for growth, and provide accessibility to our natural surroundings and physical facilities.
  • Maintain and increase our human and financial resources.