TCWC - a brief history
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• In 1994 Tri County Wildlife Care was founded in the home of a Veterinary Technician and first Director of Animal Care, along with her partner, in Sutter Creek, California. They saw the need for wildlife rescue and education and sought to serve Amador, Calaveras and San Joaquin Counties. The founders applied for and received a California Department of Fish and Game Rehabilitation Permit and a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Permit.
• In 1995 Tri County Wildlife Care incorporated, becoming a 501 (c3) non-profit corporation, and began rescue operations as well as fundraising and education programs under the guidance of an elected Board of Directors. • With the volunteer staff growing and revenue from fundraising increasing, the organization improved facilities to receive permits for Raptors and other species. • Operations in the beginning were conducted at a remote location in Sutter Creek, ideal for wildlife rehabilitation as it was quiet; but as the neighborhood changed, an increase in traffic on the road adjacent to where wildlife was being rehabilitated became problematic as the welfare of the animals was threatened. • In 2005 the founding Director of Animal Care resigned and moved out of the area. With this move Tri County Wildlife Care’s rehabilitation operations were in jeopardy. A new Director of Animal Care stepped in, working with the remaining team to obtain the necessary State and Federal approvals to continue operations. • An intake area was created at a retail location in Jackson, CA. This central location allowed the public to drop off wildlife in need of care, and provided space for a songbird nursery as well. Non-songbird species were taken to offsite rehabilitation teams in quiet, remote locations with specialized caging for the species to be rehabilitated. • In 2010 TCWC began applying to obtain the necessary permits to maintain and utilize education animals and birds in order to fulfill another aspect of their mission, to provide information to the community regarding living in harmony with their wild neighbors. • The education program has grown each year, with TCWC volunteers and their education animals visiting numerous schools, clubs and organizations to provide messages about living in balance with nature appropriate to the age group and interests of the audience. In 2014, Tri County Wildlife Care education programs reached 1680 people in the surrounding communities. • In 2014 TCWC achieved the status of Silver Participant on the GuideStar Exchange, establishing the organization as a well-managed charity deserving of the contributions from their donors and funders. * In 2015 TCWC achieved the status of GOLD Participant on the GuideStar Exchange. * In March, 2016 TCWC moved into its new home, sharing space and resources with A-PAL Humane Society at 80 Ridge Road. * In 2016 TCWC achieved the status of PLATINUM Participant on the GuideStar Exchange, establishing the organization as one of the best managed non-profits on the Exchange! |
A Snapshot ...
It's always been about saving the critters
Habitats for the permanent residents and guests alike
Fundraising Fun
Rescue, Rehab, and Release
Sometimes at great risk
Natures Majesty!
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