The Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center Inc. (FANCI) exists to support the staff, programs, and the vision of the Ansonia Nature Center and the Redwing Pond House Preschool
The Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. is a non-profit 501c3 organization comprised of nature-loving adults and children and was established in 1991. The Friends have provided volunteer and financial support for the park, its programs, and staff ever since.
Special events, such as the annual Earth Day Celebration and the Autumn Festival, would not be possible without the help of FANCI. In addition, FANCI helps maintain the trail system, provides clerical work, stocks the nature shop, and writes grants for funding opportunities.
The construction of the Redwing Pond House, a pre-school learning center, and the town’s green public building, has been the Friends’ most ambitious undertaking to date. Taking ten years of fundraising and construction, this unique building incorporates roof-integrated photovoltaic panels, geothermal heating and cooling, solar hot water, a trombe wall, and earth friendly landscaping. To foster a love for fresh food and gardening, the Inch by Inch children’s garden is located just across the road.
To learn more about the Redwing Pond House Nature-based Preschool operated by the Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center (FANCI) Contact Jackie at 203 734-7974 or visit the Redwing Pond House website or Facebook for more information.
Most recently, FANCI completed a major exhibit space renovation project in April of 2024.
Forest Home Remodeling reinvented an outdated and inaccessible room and created a beautiful exhibit space that facilitates the needs of the staff, volunteers, visitors, and our animal ambassadors. The new Reptile Room is also accessible for people who use wheelchairs via a newly paved walkway that leads to the doorway and entrance to this space.
This project was made possible by the generous contributions of the Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc., the Valley Community Foundation, the Katharine Matthies Foundation, The Claire C. Bennitt Watershed Fund, and donors like you!
