CHARLOTTE, NC (January 27, 2026) – This Valentine’s season, Discovery Place Science is introducing a fun and unconventional way to celebrate love—one that adds a playful twist to giving back. Now through February 14, the Rose or Roach giving campaign invites individuals to make a $5 donation that directly feeds Discovery Place animals, while dedicating that contribution to someone in their life either as a heartfelt gesture or a humorous twist. 

Choose between two equally impactful options: 

• Name a Roach: For a $5 donation, name a roach after an ex, a nemesis or that frenemy who “borrowed” a charger and never gave it back. The roach will then be fed to one of Discovery Place’s Animal Ambassadors. 
• Dedicate a Rose: Prefer to send love instead? A $5 donation can dedicate a rose to someone who truly deserves appreciation. The rose will be enjoyed by one of Discovery Place’s resident tortoises, showing that even the sweetest gesture helps care for the Museum’s animals. 

The Animal Ambassadors: 

• Marnie, a large marine toad that is more than ready to enjoy a hearty helping of roaches. 
• Turner, an Eastern box turtle that makes every roach feeding into a chase-and-catch adventure. 
• Herbie, a red-footed tortoise that happily snacks on roses as part of a varied, enrichment-focused diet. 

After donating, supporters can opt to send a custom e-card to their lucky (or unlucky) honoree, letting them know a celebratory snack was given in their name—whether fueled by affection, humor or a little Valentine’s mischief. 

Guests attending Science on the Rocks: (Un)Valentines at Discovery Place Science on February 13 can also participate in Rose or Roach in person. With a $5 donation, guests will receive an exclusive Rose or Roach sticker. With a $20 donation, guests receive a real rose and a physical Valentine’s card—along with the option to name a roach or dedicate a rose. 

Beyond feeding the Animal Ambassadors, Rose or Roach directly supports Discovery Place’s Living Collections team. These animal care specialists provide daily care, enrichment and conservation education for the Museum’s animals. Every roach, rose and laugh helps inspire curiosity, teach the value of protecting wildlife and connect thousands of Discovery Place visitors with the planet we all call home. 
 
To participate in the Rose or Roach campaign, visit https://give.discoveryplacemuseums.org/campaign/758392/donate.  
Rose or Roach graphics for media use can be found here. 
 
About Discovery Place Science 
Discovery Place Science is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the leading hub for science learning in the Carolinas—dedicated to the exchange of ideas, scientific exploration and creative expression to encourage innovative problem-solving and learning for all ages. Located in Uptown Charlotte at 168 W. 6th Street, the Museum brings relevant, contemporary science to life through groundbreaking exhibitions, educational programming and interactive activities. For more information about Discovery Place Science, visit discoveryplace.org.