Name: Go Wild for "Ding" - The Legacy
Start: 2026-02-04T17:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-02-04T20:00:00-05:00
Location: Sanibel Community House

Get ready to experience the wild and unforgettable legacy of "Ding" Darling in person!
About this Event
Event Photos

At the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, the word legacy takes many forms: it swims, it soars, it splashes playfully in the estuary. From otters romping through mangrove roots to roseate spoonbills painting the sky pink with their sweeping flights, nature’s generational presence reminds us what’s at stake—and what’s worth protecting.

That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to be a part of the 2026 Go Wild for “Ding” Gala - The Legacy.

This year’s theme celebrates enduring connections—between wildlife and habitat, between families and the Refuge, between the past and the future. Generations of visitors return to “Ding” Darling year after year, creating traditions as enduring as the migrations that define our landscape. Children who once watched spoonbills with wide-eyed wonder now return with their kids in tow, continuing a cycle of stewardship and awe.

The fundraising event introduces Year 2026’s theme “Generations of Wonder” – devoted to J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s multi-generational appeal, DDWS’ strong donor bequest tradition, and the observance of landmark celebrations: The 250th birthday of the United States of America and the 150th birthday of Refuge namesake, Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling.

On February 4, enjoy an evening of dinner, drinks, entertainment, auctions, storytelling, and socializing. Proceeds from the annual fundraiser support the Refuge’s overall conservation and education efforts.

We hope you’re ready to have some fun, support the Refuge, and once again go wild for “Ding!”. With all the recent drastic staff and budget cutting at the federal level, the Refuge – the wildlife! – needs your support more than ever.

Registration for Go Wild opens November 14. Tickets are $175 each. Sponsorships are available. Please contact Angeli Chin at or visit our website for more information.

We’re thrilled to invite you to be a part of the 2026 Go Wild for “Ding” Gala - The Legacy.

This year’s theme celebrates enduring connections—between wildlife and habitat, between families and the Refuge, between the past and the future. Generations of visitors return to “Ding” Darling year after year, creating traditions as enduring as the migrations that define our landscape. Children who once watched spoonbills with wide-eyed wonder now return with their own kids in tow, continuing a cycle of stewardship and awe.

By partnering with us, you help preserve critical habitats, inspire conservation action, and carry on a story that spans lifetimes. You become part of a powerful legacy that uplifts the planet and the people who cherish it.

Sponsorships are tax-deductible, with proceeds from The Legacy supporting the ongoing conservation and education efforts at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

We see each sponsorship as a true partnership. It’s a mutual investment in nature, community, and the future we’re shaping together. Whether you’re a business looking to align with a cause-driven audience or an individual passionate about preserving wild spaces, your contribution leaves a lasting impact.

Sponsors will be recognized across a wide variety of platforms, including:

Press releases and media articles
Our growing social media channels
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society website
Our “Ding” on the Wing e-newsletter (sent consistently to over 30,000 conservation-minded subscribers)
Media and social promotions, and gala materials

Sponsorship levels range from $750 to $10,000+, each with tailored benefits outlined in the following pages.

Sponsorships can encompass a blend of both cash and in-kind contributions. Should you have any inquiries while reviewing the sponsor packet or would like to explore how we can collaborate meaningfully, please do not hesitate to contact Event Coordinator Angeli Chin at 239-286-5500 or via email at [email protected].

Together, let’s pass on something beautiful. The Legacy is in our hands.

Thank you for considering becoming a steward of The Legacy. We would be honored to have you by our side as we Go Wild for The Legacy.