November 11th, 2023. 

This annual fundraiser is the main source of funding for Ballard Nature Center’s general operations. The success of this banquet is vital for the center to continue offering its current services & programs, which include toddler trots, homeschool program, family & adult programs, kids’ summer camps, and school field trips.

Ballard Nature Center provides a place for families and the community to spend time together, free of charge. Family gatherings, church gatherings, and cross country meets & practices occur regularly at the center. Your support allows us to provide educational programming to the community, and allows us to maintain the visitor center, kids’ fishing pond, pavilions, bridges, habitat, & hiking trails.

The nature center has been in operation since 1999, our goal is to promote environmental education through the development of  an outdoor learning center.  We serve the southeastern region of Illinois and are currently the only nature center in this region of Illinois.   The Ballard Nature Center operates entirely on donations, gifts and grants.