Meet Our Owners
John & Freddy Howell started the Wild Bird Center of Los Gatos, CA in October 1995. Freddy operated the store for the first few years while John continued with his employment. Once the store was running full-steam, John came in full-time. Now, 12 years later, their store is the consistent top performer in the franchise. Asked about Wild Bird Centers of America, Inc., they say:
“The idea of a Wild Bird Center matched our interest in birds and gave us the opportunity to give back to the community. Because we had no experience running a business, the franchise provided wisdom, guidance and experience that gave us confidence.”
Partners
Birding Partners
NBFS
The purpose of the National Bird-Feeding Society (NBFS) is to be “The ultimate resource for enhancing the bird feeding experience”. The NBFS (www.nbfs.org) provides the latest and most comprehensive information available about feeding and watching backyard birds to the backyard birding public and its members.The Wild Bird Centers of America (WBCA) sponsors the NBFS and WBCA’s Director of Research and Development, Dr. David Horn, also serves as Director of the National Bird-Feeding Society.
NBFM
The National Bird-Feeding Society (www.nbfs.org) supports and promotes National Bird-Feeding Month each February to increase public awareness of the birding hobby and the survival needs of backyard birds. This famous event is observed throughout North America and promotional materials are available to birding or environmental education organizations upon request. Please visit www.nbfs.org for details
NWRS
The National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) supports over 500 National Refuges, serves over 40 million visitors per year and preserves millions of acres of wild bird habitat. WBCA is proud to support NWRS (http://www.fws.gov/refuges/birding/index.html) and its programs. George Petrides, Sr. served on the NWRS Birders’ Team from 2006-2008 and received a Citizen’s Award for Exceptional Service.
Business Partners
IFA
The International Franchise Association (IFA) protects, enhances and promotes franchising. WBCA is a proud member of IFA and actively supports its programs and Code of Ethics.
WBFI
The Wild Bird Feeding Industry (WBFI) is an association dedicated to the progressive expansion of the wild bird and backyard wildlife feeding industry. As the voice of the industry, it serves the interests of its members through promoting responsible feeding, creating alliances, removing barriers, and safeguarding gains. WBCA Founder and President, George Petrides, Sr., serves on WBFI's Board of Directors and is Chairman of the Retailers’ Committee.
SBA
WBCA is a Small Business Administration (SBA) Partner. The SBA has reviewed our concept, approved our documentation and keeps it on-line to support a fast-track loan process for franchisees that choose to apply for SBA financing.