This year, our team took a day away from our usual projects to connect with our local community by volunteering at the Waterman Conservation Education Center. Known for their dedication to educating people about nature and conservation, the Waterman Center is closely aligned with our values of impact and creativity. We saw it as the perfect place to give back and strengthen our team bonds by supporting an organization that does such impactful work in our region.
Our creative energy found a new focus at Waterman as we helped plan an upcoming exhibit designed to bring the rich, ancient history of our area to life. Together, we applied our skills in exhibit mapping, painting, graphics, and storytelling to create a space that will educate and inspire visitors for years to come.
Why We Wanted to Give Back
At Riveo Creative, we believe in the power of storytelling to bridge gaps, spark curiosity, and drive action—and we’re also passionate about building stronger communities. The Waterman Center’s mission to educate and inspire resonates with the work we do. They offer a unique opportunity for people to connect with nature, learn about conservation, and appreciate the history of the land around us. So, when the chance came to spend a day at Waterman, we jumped in, excited to lend a hand (and some paintbrushes!) to a cause we truly believe in.
Bringing a Local Story to Life
The exhibit we helped design focuses on both the archaeology and paleontology of our area, sharing stories from the ancient oceans that once covered the land to the arrival of early human settlers. It was a thrill to bring our creative expertise to a project that captures these little-known stories, especially as we incorporated new displays, colorful visuals, and engaging language to connect visitors with the past.
But this project wasn’t only about ancient history—it was also a meaningful chance to acknowledge and honor the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. We wanted the exhibit to highlight not only the historical importance of their connection to this land but also their lives today.
Strengthening Team Connections Through Meaningful Work
Spending the day at Waterman wasn’t only about contributing to an important exhibit. Working together on something tangible, something outside our regular projects, was incredibly rewarding. From brainstorming concepts to picking up paintbrushes, we had a chance to support each other and draw on each other’s strengths in new ways. It was a day that not only enriched our bond as a team but also underscored why we do what we do: to create work that connects and inspires.
Looking Forward
Through this experience, we were reminded of the importance of giving back and staying connected to the world around us. As we look to the future, we’re excited to see the impact of the exhibit on the visitors who will engage with it. Knowing that our work will play a part in educating and inspiring the next generation is both humbling and deeply fulfilling.
We wrapped up our day at Waterman more connected as a team and inspired by what we’d accomplished together—all with some unexpected entertainment from Ted the Tortoise who kept us laughing as he vocalized his way through the day, especially during his bath. Who knew a tortoise could have so much personality?
