Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is pleased to announce the acceptance of a $50,000 donation from Golden Triangle Polymers that will fund new nature play elements for the Children’s Garden. This generous gift helps support Shangri La's ongoing efforts to enhance educational programs for the community’s youth and promote environmental awareness.
"Nature play touches on cognitive, emotional, social and physical development along with problem solving, creativity and environmental awareness. The gift will help us bring these valuable skills to life in the garden and build on our educational offerings, benefitting the most important local residents, the children," said Angie Mason, executive director at Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.
Golden Triangle Polymers has invested in community programs throughout the Orange County region since its announcement in late 2022 that it would build an $8.5 billion petrochemical facility at a site on State Highway 87. In 2023, the company donated $1.7 million to area schools and non-profit organizations and is investing an additional $500,000 this year.
“We value Shangri La’s commitment to being an environmental steward and believe this donation is an investment in an important community asset. We’re excited to provide them the necessary funding to grow the interactive elements of the Children’s Garden, which not only supports natural resources but also nurtures the young minds who learn from it,” said Chad Jennings, plant manager for Golden Triangle Polymers.
Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a 250 plus acre outdoor oasis in Orange, Texas, located along the waterways of Adams Bayou that combines botanical gardens and an education nature center in a unique way. Visitors are encouraged to stroll along garden paths surrounded by fragrant flowers, bird watch and take in the beauty of the grounds. At 11 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, visitors can take a naturalist-led excursion along Adams Bayou to see the wonders of nature, learn about the environment and its care, discover animals in their natural habitats and spend time with friends and family. Visitors can expect to gain a new sense of environmental stewardship in one of Texas’ most environmentally friendly gardens.
Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center is located at 2111 West Park Avenue in Orange, Texas. Admission is free of charge. For more information, please visit shangrilagardens.org.