The ECWR was founded by local Destin resident, George Gray, in 1994. After responding to a local dolphin stranding, George saw the need for an organization devoted to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned wildlife throughout the panhandle area.

In September 1994, the ECWR officially became a not-for-profit corporation registered with the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. The organization was then granted 501(c) 3 tax-exempt status with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and became permitted by the State of Florida and the federal government to rehabilitate all species of wildlife. Recently, the ECWR was authorized to act as a first responder for manatee and sea turtle strandings.

Over the last 16 years, the ECWR has grown exponentially. The number of animals admitted to the facility increases steadily each year. With the help of passionate volunteers and a zealous community, the ECWR has been able to relocate into a larger facility, become more accessible to the public and offer a higher quality of care.