Original works by high-profile artists are among auction items at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center gala. Guests will wine and dine beneath a natural canopy in the center’s reserve. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Nature lovers will open their hearts and checkbooks for the Effie Yeaw Nature Center gala on Sept. 28.

Dubbed “A Fall Feast in the Forest,” this year’s event has been moved from its traditional spring date to be reinvented as a September soiree.

Supporters of the beloved Carmichael nonprofit organization will wine, dine and likely see wildlife within yards of their tables. Staged beneath the center’s leafy canopy, the fundraiser last year drew hundreds of guests.

Rio Americana High School musicians will provide a jazzy background as radio host Jennifer Reason emcees and Keith McLane scares up auction bids. The proceeds support the center’s educational programs, museum and animal ambassadors.

Fundraising includes raise-the-paddle opportunities and an auction. VIP art donations this year include works from painters Pat Mahony, Tom Sellas, Gregory Kondos, Earl Boley, Deladier Almeida, Tim Collom and David Peterson. Items can be viewed on the nature center’s website at www.effieyeawnature.org.

Immersive nature encounters will be offered. These include guided hikes, a river cruise and a rafting adventure.  A three-night stay in Sea Ranch will spur travelers; sport and theater performances are additional temptations. A cake auction is just desserts. One of the gateaux includes a glamorous donated bijou from Sharif Jewelers. 

Administered by the American River Natural History Association, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center is a county and nonprofit partnership. Its adjacent preserve is a protected home to wildlife. Public generosity is essential for the center’s continued service to many thousands of visitors per year.

The 16th annual Gala tickets are $180 ($165 for American River Natural History Association members) per person. Hosted beer and wine is included and catering is by Bella Bru. Table sponsorships are available. 

Former Sacramento Mayor Heather Fargo is the 2025 honorary gala chair. Co-sponsors include SMUD, Western Health Advantage, Marcy Friedman, Chris and Patrice Gibson, Mike Genovese, the Loveall Foundation for Education, Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond, Richard Shanahan and Deborah Moskovitz.

The gala is from 4 to 7 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. For more fundraiser information and reservations, visit www.effieyeawnature.org.