The Rewilding Collective: Empowering Youth and Nurturing Conservation
We are thrilled to announce an exciting partnership that will amplify our mission of connecting D.C. youth with nature and nurturing their sense of belonging and resiliency. This spring, City Kids has been invited to join Conservation Nation and Inward Bound Mindfulness Education in The Rewilding Collective to embark on a transformative journey of exploration, education, and conservation.
At the core of this three-year collaboration (2023-2025) is the shared vision of providing meaningful experiences in nature to DC youth who may not have equitable access to it. By breaking down barriers and changing perceptions, the Rewilding Collective aims to empower youth and harness the transformative power of nature.
Key areas of focus have been identified to ensure the greatest impact on our participants’ lives:
Educational and Experiential Programming: The partnership between all three organizations taking part in the Rewilding Collective will provide new opportunities for youth to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. We are excited to see this partnership enhance elements of our existing program such as camping, hiking, backpacking, and biking in Washington, D.C., and our summer camp located in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Yellowstone National Park Summer Trip: As part of the City Kids program, our youngest cohort has the incredible chance to visit Yellowstone National Park each summer. In the coming years, this partnership will enhance the Yellowstone expedition as it will enable youth to deepen their connection to nature by engaging with conservationists and wolf conservation projects, gaining a firsthand understanding of the importance of wildlife preservation.
JET Internship Program: The Rewilding Collective recognizes the potential of high school students to become future environmental leaders. Through the collective, high school participants at City Kids, also known as JETs (Job Experience Trainees), will have the opportunity to intern and job shadow with local organizations and research projects, fostering their passion for conservation and gaining invaluable real-world experience.
Enhanced Mindfulness Curriculum & Programming: Mindfulness practices have proven to be effective tools for personal growth and well-being. Recognizing this, Inward Bound Mindfulness Education and City Kids will be working together to enhance our mindfulness curriculum and introduce new opportunities for youth to learn and implement mindfulness practices while connecting with nature and their surroundings. By cultivating mindfulness in nature, participants will develop essential qualities such as confidence, resilience, compassion, and growth, while nurturing their connection to the natural world.
City Kids is grateful to be part of the Rewilding Collective and looks forward to partnering with these amazing organizations. To learn more about the collective, visit Conservation Nation’s website here, and stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this transformative adventure.
