news release

The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) hosted a truly magical evening on its campus on Saturday, March 1st with its Mangroves, Moonlight & Mykonos fundraiser, bringing together an incredible community of supporters for a night of celebration, philanthropy, and environmental advocacy. The island setting in the middle of the Indian River Lagoon at the facility’s event pavilion was the perfect backdrop for the over 200 guests who enjoyed a  Greek-inspired soirée, raising a total of $344,680—with a net of $305,148. That means 89 cents of every dollar will directly support the ELC mission and make a meaningful impact.

This dynamic 37-year-old organization has a budget of ~$1.6M, with about a third of that coming from earned revenue sources such as field trips, camps, and ecotours, leaving over $1M to be generated from philanthropic contributions each year.

Event Highlights:

• Incredible Community Support – Thanks to over 200 generous donors, sponsors, and attendees, a net of $305,148 was raised to further environmental education and conservation efforts at the ELC.
• Live Music & Dancing – Guests enjoyed each other’s company and danced under the stars to the electrifying sounds of a live band performing on the pavilion stage, bringing energy, excitement, and a festive atmosphere to the evening.
• Signature Cocktail & Greek-Inspired Cuisine – The crowd enjoyed delicious Mediterranean flavors, an open bar, and a themed cocktail, the Aegean Sunset.
• Silent Auction & Raffle Success – The night featured a silent auction with coveted items, from luxury getaways to exclusive experiences raising almost $20,000 and an exciting 50/50 raffle of nearly $8,000.
• Enchanting Atmosphere –The versatile Education & Event Pavilion was transformed into a Mykonos-inspired dream, with twinkling lights, glowing tables in Aegean blues, and bougainvillea rose.
• Call to the Heart – The fast-paced paddle raise focused on supporter demonstration of commitment to the ELC cause was the thrilling and heart-warming pinnacle of the triumphant evening raising over $100,000!

A Night to Remember

“We are beyond grateful for the overwhelming support we received at Mangroves, Moonlight & Mykonos,” said Heidi Leone Royals, Director of Philanthropy at the Environmental Learning Center. “Seeing our community come together—dancing under the stars, bidding in our auction, and giving so generously—was truly heartwarming. Every dollar raised helps us continue our work in environmental education and conservation, ensuring a brighter future for the Indian River Lagoon and beyond.”

Executive Director Barbara Schlitt Ford applauded the ELC Team for their efforts which led to this fruitful fundraiser. “The unmatched success of this event would not have been possible without our dedicated sponsors, donors, staff, board members, volunteers, and attendees. Their generosity and enthusiasm fuel our mission, and we are honored to have such a passionate community by our side. Guests sharing that they left feeling informed, engaged, and inspired says it all!”

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For more information on upcoming events, programs, and ways to support the Environmental Learning Center, please visit DiscoverELC.org or call 772-589-5050.

About the Environmental Learning Center: The Environmental Learning Center is a 64-acre lagoon-island nature center dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering individuals to become active stewards of the environment. It is open seven days a week to members and drop-in guests.