Save Feb. 4 for ‘Ding’ Darling Annual Fundraiser

provided to The Santiva Chronicle

Next year’s Go Wild for “Ding” – The Legacy, presented by “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS), will take place Wednesday, Feb. 4, at The Community House on Sanibel Island from 5 to 8 p.m.

The fundraising event introduces Year 2026’s theme “Generations of Wonder” – devoted to J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s multi-generational appeal, DDWS’ strong donor bequest tradition, and the observance of landmark celebrations: The 250th birthday of the United States of America and the 150th birthday of refuge namesake, Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling.

On Feb. 4, enjoy an evening of dinner, drinks, entertainment, auctions, storytelling, and socializing. Proceeds from the annual fundraiser support the overall conservation and education efforts at the refuge.

“We hope you’re ready to have some fun, support the refuge, and once again go wild for “Ding!” said DDWS executive director Ann-Marie Wildman. “With all the recent drastic staff and budget cutting at the federal level, the refuge – the wildlife! – needs your support more than ever.”

Registration for Go Wild opens Nov. 14. Tickets are $175 each. Visit dingdarlingsociety.org/go-wild for more information.

DDWS is now accepting Go Wild sponsorships. Contact Angeli Chin at angeli@dingdarlingsociety.org for details.

ABOUT DDWS
As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, DDWS works to support J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s mission of conservation, wildlife and habitat protection, research, and public education through charitable donations and Refuge Nature Shop profits. To support DDWS and the refuge with a tax-deductible gift, visit dingdarlingsociety.org or Ann-Marie Wildman at 239-789-8991 or wildman@dingdarlingsociety.org.