200 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Suite #433
Anaheim, CA 92805
Tel: (714) 765-5160
Fax: (714) 765-4454
www.anaheim.net
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
City of Anaheim
COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
DATE: SEPTEMBER 29, 2026
FROM: COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
SUBJECT: ENDOWMENT FUND AGREEMENT FOR OAK CANYON
NATURE CENTER
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): YES ITEM # 08
GOVERNMENT CODE § 84308 APPLIES: NO
RECOMMENDATION:
That City Council, by Motion, approve an Endowment Fund Agreement with Dr. Leslie S. Richards and Dr. Dick Richards, in the initial amount of $150,000, to establish an Endowment Fund for the Oak Canyon Nature Center, and authorize the Director of Community Services, or designee, to execute and administer the Agreement.
DISCUSSION:
Oak Canyon Nature Center (OCNC) is a 58-acre natural park located in Anaheim Hills.
With a year-round stream, miles of hiking trails, and an interpretive center, it provides the ideal location for nature walks and offers a variety of seasonal programming. OCNC is also home to the John J. Collier Interpretive Center, which hosts our animal ambassadors, as well as exhibits featuring local ecology and natural history. The Nature Center is perfect for those who are just stepping into wilderness for the first time, or for experienced hikers.
For more than 50 years, Dr. Leslie and Dr. Dick Richards (Richards) have enjoyed a special connection with OCNC, its trails, native birds, and the canyon's natural beauty.
Prompted by this connection, the Richards approached the city to establish an endowment, with a contribution of $150,000 to ensure the long-term support of the Nature Center.
The endowment will be established with an initial contribution of $150,000 by the Richards. Additional contributions from other donors to this fund may also be accepted.
The purpose of this fund is to invest earnings to support the following areas:
(1) Interpretive and Educational Improvements, including trail signage and educational panels; (2) Habitat and Environment Enhancements, including wildlife support structures, expansion of pollinator gardens, development of native wildflower areas, trail and stream maintenance, and tree restoration; and (3) Visitor Experience, including enhancements to the facility, play area, and scholarships for eligible youth participating in Nature Center camps, classes, and other fee-based activities.
Endowment Fund Agreement for Oak Canyon Nature Center
September 29, 2026
The Richards’ longstanding connection to the Nature Center inspired them to make this generous gift in support of OCNC. The endowment reflects their desire to help ensure that future generations can experience the same sense of wonder, discovery, and belonging that they have enjoyed for more than five decades. This investment will help advance the long-term stewardship of OCNC and ensure it remains a place where the community can connect with and care for the natural environment for generations to come.
IMPACT ON THE BUDGET:
There is no anticipated budgetary impact.
Respectfully submitted,
Sjany Larson-Cash
Director of Community Services
Attachment:
1. Agreement