Create next generation of environmental stewards

Project Report:  Creating the next generation of environmental stewards

 First, I want to thank all our loyal GlobalGiving supporters.  We are a small staff (3 full time, 5 part time) and couldn’t do this work without your good will and generosity.

 We are currently in day camp season. Cars and buses deliver children to our Nature Center daily and the dark green of this treed natural area is brightened by all the colorful backpacks, jacket and lunch bags.  Our scholarship programs brings children from near and far – but some have never been in a forest.  One young boy, looking rather anxious, asked if there were lions here.  We assured him there were none.

 The overall goals for this education program are to connect more students to nature and use the park as an educational tool which will offer students other ways to learn, build a sense of curiosity and an interest in being an environmental steward. The field trip program strives to meet the following broader objectives. Students participating will gain:

• § a greater awareness of accessible regional nature experiences and opportunities
• § a greater understanding of methods of science inquiry and improved environmental literacy
• § a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving natural habitat
• § an increased interest in physical activity and outdoor exploration
• § an overall interest in informal learning that will have positive repercussions in the classroom
• § a better connection to Oregon State Science Standards through well-developed field trip curricula.

Our board and staff are working diligently to enhance our education programming through increased fundraising so that we might accommodate more local children who may connect to nature because of your gift.  WE THANK YOU!