Conservancy of Southwest Florida received a $25 million grant from the John & Carol Walter Family Foundation, the largest philanthropic commitment in the organization’s history.

This grant enables the nonprofit to transform the current Naples-headquartered Nature Center brand and public offerings into the new redefined John & Carol Walter Nature Experience. It will feature interactive and dynamic learning programs, including hands-on exhibits, guided tours, traveling exhibits and state-of-the-art multimedia technology. In addition, plans call for carefully preserved diverse habitats and peaceful spaces to create new opportunities for visitors to connect with nature and clear, accessible exhibits and materials, showing visitors what they can personally do and contribute to preserving Southwest Florida’s environment.

The opening of the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience is anticipated in the first half of 2028.