For over 100 years the Wilder Foundation has helped to build sustainable families and sustainable communities through operating programs and services. The buildings we work and serve in should also contribute to a healthy and sustainable environment. With the design and construction of Wilder Center, we have connected our daily work with the environment that it is performed in.

Wilder Center is designed to model how we can successfully serve people today and also steward tomorrow's environment. Our commitment to sustainable design at Wilder Center is an extension of our mission to build sustainable families and communities.

Wilder is one of the first organizations in the country to link a health and human services mission to environmental sustainability, making Wilder Center a truly significant statement that we encourage others to follow.

Wilder Center and LEED

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is a nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings.

LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. By adhering to LEED standards, Wilder creates and promotes a healthier work environment for employees and clients, while reducing operating costs through energy efficiency and implementing other practical innovations.

There are four levels of LEED certification: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Wilder Center is designed to meet Gold standards. This would not have been possible without the assistance of LEED accredited professionals, general contractor Duke Construction, and architectural firm Perkins + Will.

Wilder Center Green Economics

There are numerous economic benefits from Wilder Center, helping Wilder put more funds towards program services.

Wilder Center Operating Savings

• 45 percent reduction in energy costs, saving $40,000 per year
• $6,200 savings in water use per year
• 200 percent improvement in recycling
• $60,000 reduction in remodeling costs per year from flexible open office environment
• $2.5 million reduced construction costs by building a smaller building with an open office environment, saving $100,000 per year on operating costs.

Community Economic Benefits

• Fewer car trips with easier public transportation access and bike friendly facility
• Less energy used and less carbon emitted
• Conservation of water
• Reduced waste in landfills

Download the LEED fact sheet (pdf)