The Nature Place is kicking off their new four-part seasonal series, For the Benefit of Both, and you’re invited to the party!
La Crosse, it’s time to get outside, enjoy the fresh spring air, and step into Nature’s Living Room! On Saturday, May 2nd, from 12-2 p.m., Myrick Park is being reimagined as a community living room for a very special spring fundraiser.
This series was born out of a challenging year, “Following the abrupt termination of AmeriCorps grant funding last year, The Nature Place recognized an opportunity to engage the community more deeply… Each event creates space to share why this work matters and to invite community members to build lasting, supportive relationships with the organization,” explains Paige Manges, Director of Communications at Central Conservation.
The focus of this event series is all about making sure everyone has a place where they feel they belong. “Our mission has only become more urgent—we need third spaces for people where all are welcome to gather, learn, and feel supported. Reaching new participants and encouraging new visitors to our space continues that mission forward.” – Rebecca Swartz, Director of The Nature Place.
To bring that third space to life, they’ve filled the park with ways to connect, learn, and play. Here is a look at what’s happening:
What’s Happening at Nature’s Living Room 🌱
- Free Photo Sessions: Need a new family portrait or professional headshot? Angie Capwell Photography, Celia Rose Photography, and Fokus Photo are offering free outdoor sessions! While the sessions are free, a suggested donation goes directly to supporting free community programming.
- Dance Party: At 1 p.m., Bee Bops and Bundles will host a children’s dance party to get everyone moving.
- Life & Home Resources: Meet local partners offering everything from financial wellbeing and parenting support to free resume assistance from Thinking Leadership Collective.
- Garden Tours: Explore the seven native gardens with a guided tour or pick up something green at the seasonal plant sale.
- Homeowner Resources: Castle Realty will be sharing their homeowner resource database, giving you easy access to trusted local referrals.
Mark Your Calendars: For the Benefit of Both Series! 🗓️
This is just the first of four amazing events this year. Be sure to save these dates:
- Nature’s Living Room: Saturday, May 2nd | 12-2 p.m. (Free!)
- Heart of Art: Tuesday, June 30th | 5-7 p.m. (Ticketed – on sale mid-May)
- Music on the Marsh: Thursday, November 12th (Time TBD – Ticketed – on sale mid-summer)
- Winter Maker’s Market: Sunday, December 6th (Free! Time TBD – Vendor apps open in October)
Sign-ups for photo sessions are encouraged, so head over to natureplacelacrosse.org to snag your spot and learn more.
See you in the park! 🌳🌷
