This project has happened quickly in all aspects. The Island community rallied around the project and Felix Neck was able to raise the building funds in under six months with the help of many individuals and groups. A very significant grant from MVYouth allowed us to convert our planned seasonal building into a year round space that will accommodate our needs for the next half century. Other vital funds came from Farm Neck Foundation, Rotary Club of Martha’s Vineyard, Anne E. Clark Foundation, MV Harley Riders, Bernier’s Market, Island Tire and Auto, Kirkland and Shaw Plumbing, Felix Neck Wildlife Trust, and many friends and neighbors.
The building process happened faster than imaginable for a spring building project on Martha’s Vineyard. It is hard to believe that the first phase of construction just started in April and is now ready for summer campers. We are only able to meet our deadline with the help and commitment of our builder, Autumn Construction. The post and beam was raised in two days by a group of Amish carpenters and island contractors and businesses have worked hard to keep us on schedule and keep costs down. In the fall, the second phase will begin, adding restrooms and utilities so that year round building will be available by October. But even now, the staff is planning a nature-based preschool that will provide immersion in nature for 3-5 year olds!
This achievement is epic for all of us at Felix Neck and for the children that will benefit from nature education. Gather with us to celebrate a conservation future for children of all ages. On Monday June 12th at 5PM, there will be a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony open to the public to celebrate the new Camp Barn and Felix Neck as a special place for learning, nature, and community.
Please come by anytime to marvel at the progress and see the future home of Fern and Feather.