MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - For 20 years, the Harris Nature Center (HNC) has provided a space for children, parents, residents and many others the opportunity to experience nature and wildlife through exhibits and programs.

In 1997, the center opened their doors and started calling Meridian Township home.

Senior Park Naturalist and HNC Coordinator Kit Rich is one center leader who worked alongside the Meridian Park Commission years ago, to create and develop the HNC into what it is today.

"All this nature, acres and acres of nature. Then we started doing programs, and then eventually we were able to purchase some of the equipment and a lot of things were donated," Rich said. "And we just grew and grew."

In recognition  of this growth, and in celebration of their 20 years, the Harris Nature Center will be having two celebrations for all to join in on July 22nd.

A Birthday Bash will be held during the day from 10 am until 2 pm, hosting free nature activities, prizes, cakes and lemonade.

And in the evening, there will be a Turtle Toast Gala with jazz performed Randy Scott, wine tasting and tapas stations, a recognition ceremony and live auction, beginning at 5 pm. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.