This summer, Los Angeles families will experience the wonders of the natural world at the Audubon Center at Debs Park thanks to a $10,000 Verizon grant. On August 7, 2012, the Audubon Society will open its center doors to 100 women and children from Peace Over Violence, a domestic violence prevention agency and a 2012 Verizon grant recipient. These survivors of domestic violence will learn about conservation during these fun activities:

• Nature Walk and Hike
• Wildlife presentations with real animals
• Interactive Arts and Crafts
• Free play and exploration of the Audubon Center at Debs Park

Verizon employees will lend a hand throughout the day as volunteers supporting Audubon and Peace Over Violence team members during “Nature’s Open House.”

“Verizon Wireless is a valued partner in our mission to connect children with nature,” said Michael Sutton, Executive Director of Audubon California. “The Audubon Center at Debs Park programs serve a high population of low-income students that wouldn’t otherwise have this opportunity to learn outside of the classroom.”

The grant is aimed at promoting educational experiences in science and nature, funding a variety of Audubon programs, including:

• Nature's Classroom
• Spring and Summer Day Camp
• Arroyo Seco Restoration
• Museum Science Magnet School Partnership
• The Arroyo Green Team

Verizon’s grant is an extension of the company’s goal to lower greenhouse gas emissions and help preserve precious natural resources. For example, Verizon Wireless’ green retail store design has achieved precertification in the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED® Volume Program. Verizon Wireless is one of only eight retailers in the United States and the only wireless company to achieve precertification from the USGBC.

Audubon California is partnering with the non-profit organization Peace Over Violence (POV) to promote Verizon Wireless’ commitment to promoting community health and wellness to at-risk populations through environmental education. A longtime partner with Verizon in the movement to end domestic violence, POV is the longest standing sexual and domestic violence prevention agency in Los Angeles. Youth violence prevention and education is a key component of POV’s work, and this event will be attended by graduates of POV’s Summer Youth Institute.

The event, Nature’s Open House, is August 7 at the Audubon Center at Debs Park from 10 am to 1:30 pm and is for POV and neighborhood families.