From the very beginning, the Urban Ecology Center's programming has been enhanced by the dedication of community volunteers. Groups of people have organically sprung up around a common interest and, led by volunteers, have connected people to nature in new and exciting ways. As a result, our program offerings have grown to include everything from the arts to healthy living. These groups have made the Urban Ecology Center a more vibrant community.
Photo: Members of Friends of Real Food enjoy a tasty potluck dinner while having conversations centered on the pleasure of shared meals and learning
Programs exclusively led by volunteers are called Interest Groups. Some groups that meet here regularly include:
Join the Endazhi-Anishinaabemotaadiwag study group and learn about the Anishinaabemowin language. Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi dialects are addressed in this informal class led by Anishinaabemowin language instructors from UW-Milwaukee.
Community Pie
This group teaches kids and adults about baking pies from local ingredients.
Monthly Vegan Community Potluck at Riverside Park. You do not have to be vegan to attend, but the food does!
We will walk through the different habitats looking for birds, mammals, butterflies and other natural denizens.
The group seeks to learn about mindful eating, sustainable food systems, the local and national food movements, and other food related issues. All are invited to join this community of real food enthusiasts – there is no need to sign up ahead of time.
Be part of the climate change solution. 350.org is a grassroots movement trying to find positive solutions to climate change. Join us monthly for programs and discussions.
Are you concerned with how much plastic pollution and waste we are collectively making? Join this Interest Group while we work to create solutions for this complex problem.
Urban Ecology Center Photo Club
If you are an experienced photographer or just beginning, join this group and explore nature in an artistic light and develop new skills.
Read, write and appreciate poetry with images from nature. The purpose of this group is to observe and experience nature, then to express these observations in poetry and essay.
Have you ever spent time looking into the night sky? Join this group for a fun and lively discussion about astronomy and if the skies are clear, we will go stargazing.
Check out our calendar to see all of our Interest Group offerings
If you have a topic that you think be a perfect fit for the Urban Ecology Center, please contact Beth Heller at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
