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MISSION & HISTORY

Oaken Acres Wildlife Center is a NFP organization licensed to rehabilitate native Illinois wildlife.  We advocate for wildlife through community education and conservation.

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To forward our mission we will:

  • Provide care for injured and orphaned wild animals with a focus on releasing them into their native habitat.

  • Be a steward of resources focusing on the respect of wildlife, their habitiats, and the preservation of flora and fauna that dwell within those habitats.

  • Cultivate support from communities that benefit from our mission.

Founded in 1984 by Kathy Stelford, Oaken Acres has taken in almost 30,000 wild animals since it opened. Located on 33 acres of wildlife habitat in rural DeKalb County, Illinois, the property is set aside as a wildlife refuge, incorporating conservation acreage, woodlands, riparian habitat, and natural grasslands.

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Our slogan tells our story -- Every Life Matters!  We do not judge which animals are worthy of being saved.  If they are orphaned or hurt, they deserve a second chance.  Mice are just as special in their own ways as foxes.  Sparrows fill a niche just like owls.  They can all suffer and they all deserve compassion.

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While wildlife rehabbers are dedicated to saving as many wild babies as possible, they are equally dedicated to making certain that healthy babies remain with their wild mothers.  Our goal of keeping these wild families together is our top priority.  While we can't do as good a job in raising the babies as Mother Nature, if they are injured or orphaned we promise to do our best.

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Inspiring others to foster compassion and respect for wildlife is part of our duty as wildlife rehabilitates.  Please visit our site often and join us by making a donation to Oaken Acres.  With your help, wildlife services for our communities will continue to grow and improve.

MEET THE TEAM

BOARD OF
DIRECTORS

President

Kathy Stelford

Vice President

Mark Stelford

Secretary

Kay Johnson

Director

Constance MacGregor

Director

Beth Hosler

PARTNERS

Oaken Acres has a network of local business partners who support our mission.  These relationships help us serve our patients best and we're proud of our partners.

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