The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art is the recipient of an anonymous challenge grant for its capital campaign, which will culminate in the construction of the DeSoto Family Amphitheater, an outdoor performance venue for performing arts and educational programming in the region.

The donor has offered to match every campaign donation received before December 31, up to $400,000. If the Center succeeds in attaining the full amount, construction can begin in the spring. To date, approximately 30 percent of the goal has been attained. In appreciation of those who donate, special paver bricks will be installed in the new facility.

“In essence, every dollar contributed between now and the end of the year becomes two dollars,” says Executive Director Stephen Quigley. “It really is an incredible opportunity.”

The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art was founded in 1993 to celebrate the life and works of its namesake, nationally recognized wildlife artist, naturalist and writer Ned Smith. The Center's lands offer a tranquil outdoor experience on more than 500 contiguous acres of rustic beauty. With hardwood forest, streams, more than 12 miles of trails and panoramic views of the Susquehanna River from the mountaintop, the land also provides habitat for wildlife.

Location: 176 Water Co. Rd., Millersburg. For more information, call 717-692-3699 or visit NedSmithCenter.org and click on the Challenge link to donate.