NatureConnect Central Oregon

We are a network of 30+ partners representing education, health care, public lands, recreation, and conservation. Together, we work to connect kids to nature through learning, exploration, and play. We focus strongly on equity and inclusion, helping to connect underrepresented communities to impactful experiences in nature. We recognize that not all kids have equal access to the outdoors, and not everyone feels safe and welcome in outdoor spaces. We believe that the health and wellbeing of children, families, and communities improves when all people connect to the outdoors.

Our Values

• Equity guides our work. Not all kids have equal access to the outdoors, and not everyone feels safe and welcome in outdoor spaces. It is imperative that we work together to dismantle the systems and barriers that create inequitable access.
• Outdoor time is essential for our health. The health and wellbeing of children, families, and communities improves when people connect to the outdoors.
• Time outdoors looks and feels different for every person. We recognize and value the diversity of ways and places people connect with nature. We strive to create a more inclusive narrative for what time outdoors looks like.
• Nature-based curriculum strengthens core education programs. Learning in the outdoors enhances educational outcomes by improving children’s academic performance, focus, behavior, and love of learning.
• Outdoor engagement builds the next generation of leaders. Youth need regular and positive experiences in the outdoors to develop an appreciation of the natural world, stewardship ethics, and an interest in careers in natural resources.
• Collaboration and inclusion are essential to our success.No one organization can achieve our mission alone. Our work to lift up individuals and organizations who bring diverse perspectives and skills and create a culture of respect and continuous learning.

We have a small team of 6 year-round staff, the majority of who work for Vámonos Outside.

The mission of NatureConnect Central Oregon is to unite our community to inspire lifelong connections to nature for each child. We focus strongly on equity and inclusion, helping to connect underrepresented communities to impactful experiences in nature. Our main program areas include:

• nature education programs for K-12th grades
• career training and internships in the green sector
• family nature programs
• capacity building for our network in diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Vámonos Outside, a program providing outdoor programs to Latine youth and families