Join the Bridges Foundation Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray for the Walk on the Wild Side, a benefit for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The Bridges Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization based in Maine that provides employment opportunities and fosters skill development to enhance self-sufficiency for people with disabilities. They have a well established, internationally recognized business called L-OMA Buckwheat Pillows, that employs individuals with special needs in all aspects of its operation. The Walk on the Wild Side will help raise funds for an activity center in the Gray/Windham area for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Join other Bridges supporters for this walk for a worthy cause through the park. Balloon animals, face painting, local music and a scavenger hunt for the kids – with prizes – will all be a part of the fun. Pre-register for the walk and your donation covers your park admission. Donations of $25 or more include a free Walk t-shirt. Refreshments for Walk participants will be provided. For more information and for pre-registration forms, visit www.thebridgesfoundation.org or call 894-5288. Rain date will be Sunday, May 3.

The Maine Wildlife Park is owned and operated by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The park exists to promote and understanding and awareness of the wildlife, conservation and habitat protection programs and projects of MDIFW.

A summer series of wildlife exhibits and demonstrations targeted for the general public is offered throughout the season at the Park, located on Route 26 in Gray. Wildlife Days are held on consecutive weekends through the summer, and are sponsored by the Friends of the Maine Wildlife Park. Presenters featuring a variety of wildlife topics set up exhibits and demonstrations from roughly 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) on most Saturdays and some weekends. We encourage visitors to stop by, ask questions and even participate in some activities.

Three popular and unusual Night Visits are also scheduled, when the park opens on moonlight evenings for a Saturday, June 6, All About Bats Night Visit, from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; a Saturday, July 11, Wear Your PJ’s Night Visit, from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; and the very popular Oct. 23 Halloween Night Visit, from 6-9 p.m.

For more information about any of these programs, please call the Maine Wildlife Park at 657-4977 or online at www.mainewildlifepark.com.