Fostering Environmental Stewards Through Discovery

Meet the Wildlife Discovery Center

The Wildlife Discovery Center (WDC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing innovative, hands-on environmental education outreach programs to students across Tipton, Fayette, and Shelby counties. Founded by Rob Carmichael and Dr. Toni Carmichael, whose passion for conservation stems from decades of expertise, the WDC addresses the critical problems of lack of youth environmental literacy and schools' limited funding for supplemental education.

Through immersive, traveling programs featuring ambassador animals, the WDC brings nature and wildlife directly into classrooms. Dr. Carmichael's tailored curriculum engages minority and underserved populations, fostering the next generation of environmental stewards. With its extraordinary founders, creative approach, and commitment to accessibility, the WDC is uniquely positioned to inspire environmental awareness and action across the region.

Our Vision

A future where every student in Tipton, Fayette, and Shelby counties is inspired by immersive environmental education, fostering a generation of passionate stewards committed to conserving our natural world.

Our Mission

The Wildlife Discovery Center's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through innovative outreach programs that provide immersive, hands-on education about nature and wildlife conservation.

Our History

A Legacy of Impact

Founded in 1996 by Rob Carmichael and Dr. Toni Carmichael, the Wildlife Discovery Center (WDC) began as a one-room nature program in Illinois. Over nearly three decades, it grew into a nationally recognized powerhouse for environmental education, welcoming over 150,000 annual visitors and serving 20,000+ students each year.

In 2023, the WDC transitioned to southwest Tennessee, launching an exciting new chapter as a mobile, outreach-based model to bring high-quality environmental education directly into communities and schools.

Milestones

1996

Founded as a local nature program in Illinois.
2000

Expanded to the historic Elawa Farm, operating on 1,500 acres of pristine tallgrass savanna.
Award-Winning

Honored with the prestigious Gold Medal Award from the National Recreation and Park Association.
2023

Co-founders relocated operations to Tennessee, establishing the Friends of the Wildlife Discovery Center as a registered public charity.