Beavers at the Refuge, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Moss on Boundary Trail, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Moonlit main pond, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Elegant spreadwing damselfly, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Racoon on trail camera near Wild Goose Blind, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Northern water snake in main pond, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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House wren near Headquarters, photo by Leor Veleanu
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Luna moth male on porch at Headquarters, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Bleeding heart flowering near Headquarters, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Northern cricket frog in Miller Pond, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo
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Fungi on fallen tree on Boundary Trail, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge photo

Unexpected Wildlife Refuge is a protected natural habitat comprising 767 acres of pristine pine lands, forest, fields, bogs, streams and lakes. It provides a refuge to animals and plants indigenous to southern New Jersey; a place where wildlife can live freely and naturally without fear of being harmed at the hands of human beings. We began as the home of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci and Cavit Buyukmihci, who dedicated their land to habitat preservation so that native wildlife and habitat could thrive. We are a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) entity, federal ID 23-7025010.
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How You Can Help Unexpected Wildlife Refuge

We understand that people have to make choices between necessities and desires, and sometimes the organizations that depend on the good graces of supporters are eliminated from the household budget. Nevertheless, we hope you will consider the Refuge a priority; we need your support to continue. Any donation you can make will be placed into our general operating budget. We run this beautiful and unique wildlife refuge comprising 767 acres, on a minuscule annual budget of about $30,000. Compare that to other nonprofit organizations, and you will realize how frugal and careful we are with your contributions. We do not have bloated administrative salaries, retirement packages or health care options. Every penny you send goes directly into keeping this place safe and sound for the animals (and plants) who live here. Please make your tax-deductible gift to Unexpected Wildlife Refuge and help us continue with our mission to preserve, protect and educate – we cannot do it without your help!

Volunteer to Help Keep UWR a Safe Haven for Wildlife

Operating our Refuge takes a lot of time and energy. There is always something to do! You can help with UWR's important work by volunteering your time (and muscle power) for the following:

If you are interested in volunteering and do not mind hard work, then let us know. You may contact UWR via mail, phone, or E-mail.


Support Animals or Habitat Through a Monthly Subscription

Choose animal or habitat to support (click on one, then on the Subscribe button)

Make a Donation to the Refuge

Beavers asking to help Refuge, by co-founder Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci

Unexpected Wildlife Refuge is supported entirely by private donations from individuals who have visited us or read about the Refuge. The generosity of our supporters will allow us to continue to protect this special habitat and educate the public about its importance. Refuge expenses include local taxes, insurance premiums, truck repairs and insurance, and equipment maintenance. Please consider donating to our cause. You can contact UWR via mail, phone, or E-mail (see our privacy policy). Or donate securely through the following:


PayPal

JustGiving.org


Make a Donation Towards a Specific Campaign

We are currently using CrowdRise as a means of developing and funding specific campaigns to help the Refuge. Currently, we have no active campaigns.

Donate An Unwanted Vehicle

Your used or unwanted vehicle can provide funds to us through the CARS vehicle donation program. CARS will accept any vehicle, running or non-running, and offer free towing throughout the United States. Once they have processed and sold the vehicle, they will donate a majority of the proceeds directly to the Refuge.

Call toll-free 855-500-RIDE (855.500.7433) or visit the Refuge CARS page to participate. Not only does this provide an easy way to be rid of an unwanted vehicle, you will also be helping wildlife at the same time.

Support Us Through Other Venues

We are developing opportunities for funding through people shopping at other sites. This effort is in its early stages, but we have the following currently available:

Purchase Our Publications and Other Materials

Please see our Merchandise page for more information.

Unexpected Wildlife Refuge, Inc, is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) entity, federal ID 23-7025010; all contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of applicable regulations. Our federal tax returns can be found at ProPublica, an organization in the public interest and unaffiliated with the Refuge; you can also find similar information through GuideStar or National Center for Charitable Statistics.