PA-Funds dry up for Verona nature center

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http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_572881.html

Funds dry up for Verona nature center

By Holly Usher
TRIBUNE-REVIEW NEWS SERVICE
Sunday, June 15, 2008

Buzz up!

A nonprofit nature center in Verona is in danger of closing this month for lack of money.
Audra Assad and her father, Cyril, have run the Nature Center for more than a decade.

The pair provides live reptile programs to schools, scout troops, churches, libraries, private residences and other organizations in the Pittsburgh area.

Two years ago, the Assads began renting a storefront in Verona to showcase animals.

"Knowing how much children enjoy the hands-on learning experience our programs provide, it was my dream to open an educational center where interested individuals -- and especially children left alone after school and in need of a positive activity -- could visit and spend time with live animals without spending money," Audra Assad said.
Most of the work the Nature Center does is on a volunteer basis, which has led to money troubles.

The center is applying for grant money to continue the business, but even that hit a brick wall when its grant-writer experienced heart failure in March and remains hospitalized.

The Nature Center's immediate need is $1,500, which will cover store payments to stay in operation through June, Assad said.

The expenses break down to rent, costing $750, gas, electric and insurance. Food and supplies for the animals costs about $200 per month, Assad said.

The center has received some donations from individuals and organizations, but the center needs more to continue running, she said.

"We need to raise at least $3,000 by mid-June, as we need to know by this time if we will have the funds to sign a lease for our space, or if we should begin the process of closing the store," she said.

The Nature Center took over responsibilities left after the closing of two nonprofit organizations -- the Pittsburgh Herpetological Society and Tri State Herpetological Society, which provided information and learning opportunities for exotic animals.

Assad is worried most for kids who need the Nature Center as a place to go. Some kids spend their whole Saturday there, she said.

One little boy even offered to sell tomatoes to raise money, Assad said.

A lot of people don't even know the shop exists, she said. It is located on Allegheny River Boulevard near the intersection with Center Avenue.

"Due to lack of funds, we did no advertising at all, with the exception of a few flyers posted where permitted," she said.

"The few that pass by the store often assume that we are already closed."

Assad hopes to continue growing the business if she receives grant money to provide free workshops, animal rescue services and literature and supplies for reptile owners.

The shop can be reached 412-828-4603 for more information on the Nature Center and sending donations.

Holly Usher is a staff writer for the Advance-Leader in Oakmont and Verona.
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