2020 Nature in Neighborhoods Nature Education and Outdoor Experiences Grants

Nature education and outdoor experiences grants support and create partnerships in local communities that improve water quality, restore fish and wildlife habitat and connect people with nature. These grants prioritize programs that advance racial equity, diversity and inclusion, make communities more resilient to climate change and include greater community engagement.

Funding is available for projects that promote cultural, environmental and economic equity. As examples, projects could:

• build relationships and partnerships that promote nature education and outdoor experiences by and for people of color
• increase the number of visitors and staff at parks and natural areas who represent diverse racial, ethnic and cultural groups
• develop the capacity of organizations that serve people of color to lead nature education and cultural programs in parks and natural areas
• offer school-aged children, with a special emphasis on students of color, hands-on nature education in local natural areas
• integrate outdoor nature education with school-based and science, technology, engineering and math curriculum
• support community engagement and nature education programs that include hands-on restoration activities to improve fish and wildlife habitat in local communities
• support mentorship, youth corps and job skill development or otherwise prepare participants for continuing careers or higher education in natural resources, nature education or other nature-related science, technology, engineering or math fields.

Who is eligible?

Community groups, nonprofits, neighborhoods, individuals, faith groups and service groups with nonprofit or other tax-exempt status may apply. Grants may only be awarded to projects and programs that benefit Metro-area residents.

When do I apply?

The 2020 Nature in Neighborhoods nature education and outdoor experiences grants handbook is available below. Pre-applications will be due January 29, 2020. These grants are available every other year.

Apply here.