The Midwest Native Plant Society, Inc. established the Cheryl B Harner Wonder Fund, a scholarship that provides free attendance to one of our events for adults.  This program offers adults (18+) with a passion for native plants - through horticulture, botany, ecology, landscape architecture/design, education, conservation or a related field - the opportunity to attend society events. This year, 2026, we are hosting the Spring Nature Safari and the annual Midwest Native Plant Conference.

Our goal is to make these offerings more accessible, to foster growth in the environmental arts and sciences, and to encourage recipients to carry on our mission to "connect people to nature".  We strive to post events early in the year to our website: https://www.midwestnativeplants.org/#Societynews.

Scholarships are available for:

• Adults over 18 who interested in native plant related fields.
• Active interns and volunteers in a native plant related fields.
• Beginning professionals in a native plant related field, such as new growers and landscapers.
• Educators in science and environmental studies.

What you will receive:

• The scholarship includes all educational programs, workshops, and field trips during the event. This includes meals and in some cases, lodging on a limited basis.
• Participants will have the opportunity to gain insights from industry experts through presentations and field trips.
• The program offers a diverse range of indoor and outdoor sessions, providing hands-on experiences and practical learning opportunities.
• Furthermore, participants will have the chance to connect with others who share similar interests, fostering networking opportunities. Additionally, participants will become part of the naturalist community centered in southern Ohio.

Here’s a link to the Wonder Fund Scholarship Application. You will receive a response within five days of submitting the application. Completing the application doesn’t guarantee availability. Regardless of selection, volunteering opportunities may be available for the event. This is an excellent chance to learn and connect with nature. You may direct any questions to Michelle at: scholarships@midwestnativeplants.org.

This program is funded by conference proceeds and generous donations. To make a contribution to the Wonder Scholarship Fund, please visit our donation page. The MIdwest Native Plant Society, Inc. is a non-profit charitable organization and your donation can be considered tax deductible. Please check with your tax advisor for details.