Highlands Biological Station & Foundation

Make a Contribution

Two entities, one mission. Support the Station, the Foundation, or both — every gift keeps science, education, and wild places thriving in the southern Blue Ridge.

Give to the Station Give to the Foundation

Scientific research & grants

Botanical Gardens & conservation

Education programs for all ages

Community outreach across the region

Station or Foundation — what's the difference?

HBS and HBF are separate legal entities working in close partnership toward the same campus and mission. Here's what to know before you give.

Academic Unit

Highlands Biological Station

A multi-campus center of Western Carolina University

HBS is operated by WCU, a public institution in the UNC System. State funding covers core operations; philanthropic gifts support research infrastructure, equipment, and academic programs beyond state appropriations.

  • Research facilities, labs & field equipment
  • Academic courses & visiting scholar programs
  • Campus infrastructure & collections
  • Graduate student & researcher support
Give to HBS via WCU
Independent Nonprofit

Highlands Biological Foundation

501(c)(3) — all gifts are 100% tax-deductible

HBF is an independent nonprofit that exists specifically to support HBS. It funds the Nature Center, awards research scholarships, and hosts community events.

  • Nature Center programs & summer camps
  • Zahner Conservation Lecture Series (free)
  • Research grants & student scholarships
  • "Nature on the Go!" outreach programs
  • UNC-Chapel Hill Highlands Field Site
Give to HBF

Give to HBS

Gifts are processed through Western Carolina University's giving platform and sustain the academic infrastructure that keeps HBS at the forefront of southern Appalachian research. Questions? Email hbs@wcu.edu or call 828.526.2602.

Online — GiveCampus One-time or recurring gift via WCU's secure giving portal. Donate now →
By Phone or Email Call 828.526.2602 or email hbs@wcu.edu for assistance.

Give to HBF

HBF is a registered 501(c)(3). Every dollar stays in the southern Appalachians, funding education programs, the Nature Center, research scholarships, and public outreach. Any gift of $30 or more includes a one-year membership.

Give to HBF Online See Membership Levels →
Mail a Check Payable to Highlands Biological Foundation · P.O. Box 580 · Highlands, NC 28741
In Person 2465 Cashiers Rd, Highlands, NC 28741
By Phone 828.526.2221
DAF or Stock Gift Contact the office to arrange a donor-advised fund transfer or stock gift.

Member Benefits

Automatically included with any HBF gift of $30 or more.

Early RegistrationPriority access to Nature Camp and select programs before public opening.
Members-Only EventsExclusive invitations to receptions, behind-the-scenes tours, and special programs.
News & UpdatesE-newsletters and program announcements keeping you connected.
Voting RightsYour voice in HBF decisions at the Annual Meeting.
Tax ReceiptFull documentation for your 100% tax-deductible gift.

Common Questions

Are gifts tax-deductible?

Gifts to HBF are 100% tax-deductible — it is a registered 501(c)(3). Gifts to HBS via WCU are processed through a public state university; please confirm deductibility with your tax advisor, as rules for gifts to public universities can vary.

Can I direct my gift to a specific program?

Yes. HBF accepts gifts designated to the Nature Center, research grants, or the general operating fund. Contact 828.526.2221 to arrange a restricted gift. For HBS directed gifts, email hbs@wcu.edu.

How does HBF membership work?

Any gift of $30 or more to HBF automatically makes you a member for one year. Benefits include early program registration, members-only events, newsletters, and an invitation to the Annual Meeting. Membership renews with your next gift.

Can I give to both?

Absolutely! Use both portals: give to HBF and give to HBS via WCU. Together they sustain both the public mission and the academic infrastructure.

Can my company or organization make a gift?

Yes — both entities welcome corporate and institutional gifts. For larger gifts, planned giving, or sponsorship discussions, contact us at hbs@wcu.edu or 828.526.2221.