-- Bear Creek Feline Center (BCFC), a nonprofit wildcat sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and protection of lesser-known wild feline species, has announced a partnership with Goodwill Industries - Big Bend, Inc. to host a public event titled “Big Cats, Big Impact” on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Center's location in Panama City.
The event will serve as an open-house style experience, providing attendees with small-group tours of the facility and an up-close look at the Center’s resident wildcats—including African Servals, Eurasian Lynx, and North American Bobcats. The event is designed to educate the public on conservation, sustainability, and the missions of both hosting organizations. Admission is granted in exchange for a donation of gently used items to Goodwill, reinforcing the sustainability message central to the event.
Bear Creek Feline Center was established in 2000 to provide sanctuary for wildcats that cannot be released into the wild, while also serving as a hub for research and public education. The Center emphasizes three core principles: rescue, research, and education, with a commitment to species preservation and responsible wildlife stewardship. Through hands-on experiences and guided tours, the Center aims to raise awareness about lesser-known feline species and the challenges they face in the wild and in captivity.
“We are proud to collaborate with an organization like Goodwill Big Bend that shares our values of environmental responsibility and community service,” said Jim Broaddus, Founder and Director of Bear Creek Feline Center. “We hope this event encourages the public to think critically about sustainability and take an active role in protecting both the environment and vulnerable wildlife species.”
Goodwill Industries - Big Bend, Inc., which serves 22 counties in Northwest Florida and South Georgia, is committed to diverting waste from landfills while providing workforce development and employment services. In 2024, the organization kept over 35 million pounds of goods out of landfills and supported approximately 13,000 individuals through its programs.
“We appreciate collaborations with other organizations that hold our shared values,” said Fred Shelfer, President and CEO of Goodwill Big Bend. “We hope this event will highlight Bear Creek Feline Center wildlife conservation efforts.”
The event will take place at Bear Creek Feline Center, 8822 Tracy Way, Panama City, FL 32404. For more information about Big Cats, Big Impact or to schedule media interviews, please contact Bear Creek Feline Center at (850) 722-9927 or visit bearcreekfelinecenter.org.
Contact Info:
Name: Jim Broaddus
Email: Send Email
Organization: Bear Creek Feline Center
Address: 8822 Tracy Way, Panama City, Florida 32404, United States
Phone: +1-850-722-9927
Website: https://bearcreekfelinecenter.org/
Release ID: 89162362