WAYNESBORO, VA (Wildlife Center of Virginia) — The Wildlife Center of Virginia’s 2025 Online Gala Auction is officially open now through Saturday, August 23 at 8:00 p.m. EST.

This year’s auction features nearly 100 items, from handcrafted goods and wildlife-inspired art to one-of-a-kind experiences. Several of the items were even crafted with the help of the Center’s animal ambassadors.

Buddy the Bald Eagle’s painting
Cosmos the Opossum’s painting

“Our Bald Eagle, Buddy, and Virginia Opossum, Cosmos, created some of the artwork in the auction,” said Connor Gillespie, the Center’s Director of Outreach. “We framed the finished pieces and they turned out even better than expected!”

Dr. Olivia – Maggie
Dr. Olivia – Ozzy

Bidders will also find items handcrafted by the Center’s staff and students, including pottery, scarves, and baked goods. One particularly popular item already drawing attention is a ceramic mug featuring Ozzy, the Center’s resident Eastern Screech-Owl.

In addition to auction items, bidders can vie for exclusive experiences, like a “Day at the Wildlife Center.” The winner of this experience will get to spend a whole day working alongside the Center’s staff —helping prepare animal diets, assisting with patient care, and meeting the education animals.

“There’s no such thing as a typical day at the Wildlife Center, and that’s part of what makes this experience so special,” says Connor. “Another unique opportunity up for bid is helping to release three of our recovered patients—including a Bald Eagle!”

Ready to start bidding? The Center’s auction platform makes it simple. Simply register through their Givesmart platform, browse the auction catalog, and pick your favorites. You can place bids manually, or set a maximum bid and let the system bid for you.

Center staff encourage attendees to “bid wildly”, as all proceeds will go directly to the Center’s life-saving work.

“Right now, we have more than 150 patients in care—many of them critically injured,” said Connor. “Every bid is a lifeline for them, helping to provide them with food and medical care.”

For more information about the Center’s auction, including how to register to bid, visit: https://wildlifecenter.org/news-events/news/2025/wildlife-center-online-auction-now-open