Fort Wayne area residents can look forward to a special event next month as Soarin Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation hosts its Give a Hoot fundraiser to support injured birds of prey. Set for September 20, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Peace Montessori School in New Haven, the gathering aims to raise funds for a larger enclosure for the group’s resident bald eagle named Jefferson while offering fun activities like bird encounters and a silent auction.

Event Details and What to Expect

Community members interested in wildlife conservation have a chance to join this evening of education and entertainment. The fundraiser invites guests to meet resident raptors up close, enjoy catered food, sip drinks from an open bar, and bid on items in a silent auction. Photo opportunities with the birds add a personal touch, making it a family friendly outing that highlights the importance of raptor rehabilitation.

Tickets cost $45 each and are available online through the organization’s website. Organizers expect a good turnout, building on past events that have drawn hundreds of supporters. This setup not only fosters community involvement but also directly aids the nonprofit’s mission to rescue and release birds back into the wild.

Proceeds will specifically fund improvements for Jefferson, the bald eagle who has become a symbol of the group’s work. With growing needs for space and care, events like this help cover costs that donations alone might not meet.

The Mission of Soarin Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation

Soarin Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation has served northeast Indiana and nearby areas for years, focusing on injured and orphaned birds of prey such as hawks, owls, and eagles. The group operates from its facility in Huntertown, where volunteers and experts provide medical treatment, flight training, and eventual release for recoverable birds.

Education plays a big role in their efforts. They host programs at local libraries, fairs, and schools to teach about raptors’ roles in ecosystems, like controlling rodent populations and maintaining biodiversity. Recent data from wildlife reports show that raptor populations face threats from habitat loss and vehicle collisions, making rehabilitation centers vital.

In 2024, the organization reported caring for over 100 birds, with many successfully returned to nature. This success stems from partnerships with state agencies and community support, ensuring ethical and effective operations.

The group also maintains a team of ambassador birds that cannot be released due to permanent injuries. These birds, including Jefferson, participate in outreach to inspire conservation awareness among visitors of all ages.

Why This Fundraiser Matters Now

With wildlife conservation gaining attention amid climate changes and urban expansion, events like Give a Hoot come at a key time. Recent studies from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate a rise in raptor injuries, up 15 percent in the Midwest over the past five years due to factors like power lines and pesticides.

Soarin Hawk’s work aligns with broader trends, such as increased public interest in bird watching and eco tourism. Similar fundraisers in the region, like those for wetlands projects, have raised thousands, showing strong local support for nature causes.

By attending, participants contribute to tangible outcomes. For instance, the new enclosure for Jefferson will provide more space for natural behaviors, improving his quality of life and serving as an educational tool.

Here are some ways the funds will make an impact:

• Building materials for the expanded eagle habitat
• Veterinary supplies for ongoing bird care
• Educational resources for public programs

This targeted approach ensures every dollar helps sustain the nonprofit’s operations.

Past Successes and Community Impact

Soarin Hawk has a track record of successful events that blend fun with purpose. Last year’s calendar sale, for example, featured photos of ambassador birds and raised funds for general operations. In 2021, the group opened a new facility to handle more cases, serving Indiana, southern Michigan, and northwestern Ohio.

Community feedback highlights the value. Local residents often share stories of rescued birds, like a red tailed hawk rehabilitated after a car accident. Such tales underscore the emotional connection people feel to these majestic creatures.

The organization collaborates with groups like the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and land trusts, amplifying their reach. Volunteers play a crucial role, with training sessions drawing new helpers each year.

To illustrate their growth, consider this table of key milestones:

These steps show steady progress in a field where every rescued bird counts.

How to Get Involved Beyond the Event

Those unable to attend can still support Soarin Hawk through donations or volunteering. The group’s website offers ways to contribute, including sponsoring a bird or buying merchandise like calendars with raptor photos.

Looking ahead, the organization plans more events, such as library talks and fair appearances listed on their site. Staying involved helps address ongoing challenges in wildlife protection.

Share this story with friends who love nature, and let us know in the comments if you plan to attend or how you’ve supported local conservation efforts.