FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Women Inspiring Philanthropy Fully Funds Phase 2 of A River Runs Through It at River Legacy Nature Center

Community investment advances immersive environmental education for thousands of children and families.

ARLINGTON, Texas — River Legacy Foundation is proud to announce that Women Inspiring Philanthropy (WIP) has fully funded Phase 2 of A River Runs Through It, the Nature Center’s newest immersive, technology-driven exhibit designed to inspire environmental stewardship through hands-on exploration of the Trinity River ecosystem.

Since the opening of Phase 1 earlier this summer, A River Runs Through It has quickly become one of River Legacy Nature Center’s most popular attractions. Children have laughed, “splashed”, chased virtual bullfrogs, and explored the Trinity River ecosystem in entirely new ways through an interactive digital environment that transforms learning into play.

Families continue to share overwhelmingly positive feedback, with one question rising above all others:

“When will the rest of the exhibit be finished?”

Today, River Legacy Foundation is excited to announce that answer.

Women Inspiring Philanthropy’s investment fully funds Phase 2 of the project, allowing the interactive experience to expand significantly when construction is completed this November. The next phase will extend the virtual Trinity River throughout the Discovery Room, creating an even larger immersive environment where children and families can experience the sights, sounds, and wildlife of one of North Texas’ most important ecosystems.

“Women Inspiring Philanthropy understands that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight – it happens when a community chooses to invest in its future. Their generosity is helping us create an experience where thousands of children and families won’t just learn about the Trinity River – they’ll step into it, interact with it, and develop a lasting connection to the natural world. We are deeply grateful for WIP’s belief in our mission and their commitment to inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.”

— Shannon Porter, Executive Director, River Legacy Foundation

Women Inspiring Philanthropy is a community of women dedicated to creating lasting change throughout Arlington through collective giving. By combining annual charitable contributions, WIP funds transformational projects that strengthen the community and create lasting impact for future generations.

Their philosophy is simple yet powerful:

“Charity fills an immediate need; philanthropy makes change happen.”

That vision aligns closely with River Legacy Foundation’s mission to connect children and families with nature through meaningful environmental education.

As Women Inspiring Philanthropy shared in its grant announcement:

“Women Inspiring Philanthropy is proud to support organizations that strengthen our community and create lasting benefits for future generations.”

Through this investment, thousands of visitors each year will have the opportunity to experience an engaging, technology-driven environment that deepens their understanding of the Trinity River, native wildlife, water resources, and the importance of protecting the ecosystems that make North Texas unique.

Many others are celebrating the announcement with us.

Girls Inc. of Tarrant County shared,

“Such a great investment in Arlington at the River Legacy Nature Center! We can’t wait to visit someday soon!”

Carmin McKinney, a Women Inspiring Philanthropy member, wrote,

“What a privilege to support all the good work River Legacy Nature Center does in our region!”

Giana Ortiz added,

“Outstanding work for an outstanding nonprofit in our outstanding city!! Love this!”

The enthusiasm surrounding the project reflects what River Legacy has experienced since the exhibit first opened – our community believes in the power of nature education and understands the importance of investing in experiences that inspire curiosity, scientific discovery, and environmental stewardship.

With Phases 1 and 2 now fully funded, A River Runs Through It is well on its way to becoming the immersive educational experience River Legacy Foundation first envisioned. The final phase will complete the Discovery Room transformation by creating an even more immersive forest environment that surrounds visitors with the sights and sounds of the Trinity River ecosystem, bringing the story of North Texas’ natural landscape to life in entirely new ways.

River Legacy Foundation looks forward to celebrating the completion of Phase 2 this November and anticipates announcing funding for Phase 3 in the coming weeks. Together, all three phases will create a world-class environmental education experience that will inspire children, families, and future generations for years to come.

About River Legacy Foundation

River Legacy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the natural resources of the Trinity River and inspiring environmental stewardship through hands-on education, immersive experiences, and community engagement. Through River Legacy Nature Center, the Foundation serves thousands of children and families each year with innovative programs that connect people to nature and foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment.