Back to the Wild launches fundraiser

Editor's note: Back to the Wild, a Castalia-based nonprofit founded in 1990, returns injured and sick animals back into their natural habitats through a medically approved rehabilitation process. People can learn more or donate by visiting facebook.com/backtothewildohio. MARGARETTA TWP. — Back to the Wild, a local wildlife rehabilitation and nature education center, has launched its annual April matching fundraiser to support the care of injured, orphaned and sick native wildlife. Throughout the month, an anonymous donor will match donations dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000, doubling the impact of community support during one of the organization's busiest seasons. Founded more than 35 years ago by Mona Rutger, Back to the Wild operates on the property of Mona and Bill Rutger in Castalia. The nonprofit provides rehabilitation services to thousands of wild animals each year, aiming to release them back into their natural habitats whenever possible. In addition to rehabilitation, the organization offers educational programming featuring non-releasable ambassador animals to connect the public with Ohio's native wildlife and promote conservation. Back to the Wild is not funded by tax dollars. It relies on donations from individuals, businesses and community foundations to continue its mission. Community members can support the fundraiser by donating throughout April, helping provide essential care and resources for wildlife in need.