So, you feel like youâre out there doing good work â but how do you actually measure and prove that youâre doing good work? By creating a theory of change, a tool that will help define your program or organizationâs overall strategy for creating a positive impact. WHAT EXACTLY IS A THEORY OF CHANGE? A theory of change is an organizational tool that will help you...
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The warmer weather and longer days of springtime offer the perfect opportunity to head outdoors. One way to enjoy all of that extra sunshine is to implement a rock climbing program with a focus on safety, education, and fun. Of course, you can teach rock climbing indoors, as well â but weâll take any excuse to get kids (and ourselves) outside! Here are some...
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Each year on April 22nd, we observe Earth Day, a celebration of the environment. The concept has grown since its inception in 1970 to include weeklong and even month-long activities and conversation, creating a wealth of opportunities (and resources) to teach and engage in principles of environmental protection and stewardship. With the phrase âEarth Day is every dayâ in mind, here are five ways you...
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The number of amazing jobs and careers available working both in the outdoors and on behalf of the outdoors is staggering. But with such a bounty of options, which one is right for you? We pulled together a list of twelve dream outdoor recreation and conservation careers to serve as inspiration while you carve out your own pathway. This list isnât exhaustive by any means...
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Fundraising can feel like one of the most vexing components of running an outdoor program. It can seem difficult to know exactly where to look for funds and how to apply for them, especially with the threat of rejection looming with each grant application. The thing is â you have to ask for funding in order to receive it, so itâs always worth giving it...
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Are you interested in building an outdoor program at your school, in your community, or within an existing organization? Consider these four steps a starter kit that will help you understand what it takes to develop curriculum, build partnerships, recruit participants, and launch a successful outdoor program. DEVELOPING A CURRICULUM Most programs begin with a great idea, but the most successful programs also begin with...
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As Elyse Rylander wrapped up her undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin, she had a clear vision about the road ahead: she would channel her enthusiasm for the outdoors, personal understanding of its healing powers, and experiences as a member of the queer community to work with an organization that helped LGBTQ youth forge a positive connection with the natural world. When a clear...
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Most of us would probably rather spend our workday out in the field instead of glued to a computer. Even so, digital media can offer an incredibly useful toolkit to help support the work we do outdoors, so itâs worth learning how to harness its power for good. Here, we offer some tips and tricks to help you navigate the digital waters. ASSESS YOUR CURRENT...
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If you enjoy spending time outside, chances are your bookshelves are already stuffed with environmental tomes and tales of outdoor adventure. We suggest you add to that collection with these must-have books relevant to anyone who works with youth outdoors. BOOKS ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION Whether or not you work in a traditional outdoor education setting, these books will help strengthen your knowledge base and inspire...
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As we approach the yearâs end, many people are already looking forward to 2018, thinking about what personal goals they might hope to achieve: picking up a new hobby, saving for a big vacation, or perhaps simply getting outside more. Just as you look inward when the new year approaches, itâs a great idea to also reflect on your organization, program, or project to see...
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