We are excited to introduce the newest member of the City Kids Wilderness Project family, Taylore Willis, who has joined us as Director of Programs, DC. Taylore comes to City Kids from Prince George’s County, Maryland, bringing an impressive background in environmental education and leadership. Her career has spanned various non-profit organizations and state government roles across the country, including her most recent position as Assistant Park Manager at Mason Neck State Park in Virginia, where she oversaw public programs, personnel, and park operations.
Reflecting on her new role, Taylore shared, “City Kids appeared at the perfect time, at a point where I needed it, and I think City Kids needed me!”
With a passion for youth engagement in the outdoors, Taylore is committed to creating transformative opportunities.
“I see that with myself. There are so many interests I’ve discovered and enjoy that were mostly attributed to exposure and changes in environment. These experiences have changed my perspective on how the world works and breaking barriers of what I’m capable of. All people need to be given that opportunity. Here at City Kids, I’m in a position to help kids expand their view of the world. It’s so amazing to be part of an organization that fosters confidence, independence, and helps youth think beyond the scope of their lives in DC,” she said.
Taylore’s connection to nature began in her childhood, where she spent time with her grandmother in the garden, playing in the dirt, exploring creeks, and climbing trees at community park playgrounds. Though she always had a passion for science, it wasn’t until high school that her love for nature truly took root as a career path when an AP Biology teacher recommended she pursue environmental science. In college, a club fair sign-up mix-up led her to accidentally join the Wilderness and Ecology Club instead of the Environmental Club—a mistake that turned into a life-changing experience. Through the Wilderness and Ecology Club, Taylore participated in a variety of outdoor recreation activities, discovered the joys of camping and horseback riding, fostered deep friendships and a profound love for outdoor adventure.
Taylore was also inspired by Outdoor Afro, an organization founded by Rue Mapp that connects Black communities to nature. “[Outdoor Afro’s] whole purpose was to connect minorities to outdoor spaces—that really resonated with me,” Taylore recalled. “I was the only Black female in the Wilderness and Ecology Club, and didn’t often see people who looked like me in outdoor recreation spaces.”
At City Kids, Taylore is eager to enhance curriculum cohesion across cohorts, build strong community partnerships, and ensure youth thrive both personally and professionally, all while having fun.
“I’m excited to connect with the community, do meaningful work, and see the positive impact we’re making in the lives of youth and their families.”
Taylore holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Biology and Psychology from Stevenson University. In addition, she’s completed numerous professional development courses including Aquatic WILD, Growing Up WILD, The Food Project Winter Institute, and Adult Mental Health First Aid from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, to name a few.
Outside of work, Taylore is an avid adventurer who enjoys traveling, rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking. Some of her favorite spots include Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary and The National Arboretum. Please join us in welcoming Taylore to the City Kids team!
