When people have meaningful outdoor experiences their health, quality of life, and social well-being improve, and in turn, communities become stronger and more sustainable. Everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy time outdoors, because when people connect with nature we all benefit. Let's break through the barriers!
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Since 1992 we have focused on providing meaningful outdoor experiences to youth. Each of us here at Ventana Wildlife Society can remember back to a young age when we first connected with nature - perhaps it was one moment, perhaps many, that helped inspired us to become nature-lovers, conservationists, biologists and educators. We are dedicated to providing those opportunities for all children to experience the awe and excitement of the natural world, setting them on their own journey of stewarding our planet.
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Join Us
WHEN WILL IN PERSON PROGRAMS BEGIN AGAIN?
We are offering one weekly nature class this fall and will slowly add additional in person programs. We hope to return to a full summer schedule in 2022. As a program that operates in publicly accessible areas, there are unique challenges to holding in person programming during the pandemic. Reopening our programs will happen as we can do so safely and in accordance with California's Blueprint for a Safer Economy, local ordinances and community comfort levels. If you would like to receive an email when in person programming is once again availabla submit your email here. free - Youth Crafts at Farmer Markets
Look for our tent at the Alisal Farmers Market on Tuesday's 11am-4pm, or the Castroville Market on Thursday's 2:30-8pm. Our staff will be out with coloring pages and other fun crafts for kids each week! weekly nature classes for youth
Our weekly in-person nature class is back! Classes focus on connecting to nature through increased awareness. Core routines of the program include opening/closing discussions, story-telling, using journals, sit-spots, and wildlife observation. The program’s goal is to provide a meaningful experience and get students excited about nature. Contact Alena Porte for information or to register. become a community partner
VWS provides limited free programming to underserved communities. If you operate a youth program for an underserved community in Monterey County, and would like to explore a partnership, please contact Alena Porte. DONATE TO the katie lannon SCHOLARSHIP FUND
We strive to balance the inequities in outdoor education by providing over half of our programs free to youth from underserved communities. In addition, scholarships are always available for our public fee-based programs. No family is ever turned away due to lack of funds. You can help by donating today. Vertical Divider
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What Parents Are Saying
“Once again the boys not only had a lot of fun, they now really have a very strong interest in wildlife conservation.”
“...they want to go every week! Thank you for providing a nourishing summer program!”
“Thank YOU all for providing a fun-filled week for the kids. Nothing but good stories have been told. Keep up the good work and we will see you all in the wild!”
“As long as Ventana Wildlife Society is offering this camp my kids will be taking it! Thanks for offering such an important piece of our children’s education.”
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Additional Resources
RESOURCES
For educators and students Vertical Divider
BILINGUAL EDUCATION
Inclusion for Spanish speaking youth |
FUND-A-STUDENT
Donate for children in need to attend Vertical Divider
INSPIRATIONAL YOUTH
Projects by kids |
PRESENTATIONS
Virtual opportunities Vertical Divider
Why nature is essential resources
• Benefits of Environmental Education • The Urgent Need for Nature During and After Covid |
