Wish List

Financial support is invaluable to the Ozark Natural Science Center, but many of our most pressing needs are related to our facilities, deferred maintenance, program equipment and other supplies. This list changes frequently – check back often and let us know if you or your company can offer in-kind support or would like to purchase supplies on behalf of ONSC!

OUR MOST PRESSING NEEDS:

  • 4 – 6 laptop computers and 2 – 3 desktop computers.
  • Heavy-duty riding lawn mower for our field and campus use.
  • High quality binoculars and telescopes for programs (can provide preferred brands or accept donations).
  • Extensive field guides (list available) and books for teacher naturalist and student/visitor use.
  • An underwriter for significant upgrades to our two-way radio system, which needs to be improved to cover our entire campus and ensure good communication and safety for school groups.  Cost quote is $7,000 – $12,000.
  • Underwriting for our subscription to Foundation Search, enabling us to access grants and corporate gifts.  Estimated cost to us is $8,000 and the entire amount is refundable to the donor if we do not receive funding, meaning the supporter has the chance to see quantifiable return on their investment.

Additional wish list items:

  • Two futon-style beds/couches for staff bunk house (Neaville House).
  • A microwave for the staff bunk house.
  • An underwriter (with naming opportunity) for our soon-to-be-restored Tent Village (estimated cost is $5,000).  The village will eventually accommodate 36 – 50 people in 4-person tents with outdoor showers and gathering areas and will be ideal for scout troops or independent groups.  See a sketch here.
  • Rain barrels for appropriate facilities.
  • Review of 2011 facility assessment needs list (includes lighting, energy capture and solutions to decrease our footprint).
  • Purchase of second commercial-grade refrigerator and/or freezer.
  • Furniture including couches, chairs, office chairs and lamps.
  • Live and silent auction items for Call of the Wild (April 21, 2012) – i.e. artwork, pottery, jewelry, unique trips.

Received from our supporters – THANK YOU!

  • New commercial-grade refrigerator (est. $2,500 – $3,000) to replace a fridge that went out in March 2011 – purchased thanks to generous anonymous donors!
  • Substantial first aid supplies (beyond the basics – just-in-case items for student and visitor safety) – purchased thanks to Call of the Wild 2011 and the Mercy Foundation!
  • Outfitting/supplies for canoe fleet including teacher naturalist equipment and safety gear – purchased thanks to Cargill!
  • Upgrade to modem and router to improve wireless service for staff as well as corporate groups/facility rentals – in the works thanks to our friends in Walmart IT and Motorola!