Wilderness Youth Project

Wilderness Youth Project (WYP) ~ Nature Connection ProgramsNature makes children smarter, healthier, happier, and more likely to care for the planet. All children need nature. Not just the ones whose families have privilege and easy access to nature. Not only those of a certain race or economic class or culture or gender or sexual identity or language or set of abilities. Partnering with schools and agencies, WYP has increased access to nature connection and outdoor enrichment programs for marginalized youth. In 2023, WYP programs served 1,355 youth through outdoor enrichment programs: 44 weekly school-year and after-school programs, and 624 summer camp spots serving children ages three through eighteen. Through fundraising, WYP was able to provide scholarships to 68% of participants.In addition to WYPs youth nature-mentoring programs, Wilderness Youth Project acts as fiscal sponsor to two separate entity programs: REACH and The Sea League (TSL), described below.

The Sea League (TSL) - TSL is an after-school program dedicated to providing year-round, equitable opportunities for youth to engage in ocean recreations such as surfing, stand up paddling, kayaking, and environmental education. TSL offers a sliding scale fee structure, making programs accessible regardless of economic circumstances. This commitment to inclusivity ensures a welcoming and diverse community, where children from all backgrounds can enjoy and benefit from nature-connected activities, fostering a sense of belonging in ocean spaces.The Sea Leagues mission is to create immersive opportunities for youth to explore, play and build community in marine habitats.In its first two years, The Sea League served 211 kids, with participation numbers increasing from 72 in 2022 to 139 in 2023. The total program hours rose from 2,016 to 3,892, and scholarships provided increased from 61% to 70%. The representation of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) participants reached 66% in 2023, up from 2022, and programming expanded from one location to three, highlighting a growing reach and impact in promoting diversity and inclusivity in ocean recreation.

REACH (Resilience, Education, Adventure, Community and Health) is a two-and-a-half-year program that provides transformative support and development opportunities to first-generation students as they navigate the transition from high school to postsecondary education and opportunities. The program offers a blend of programming focused on academic preparation, outdoor experiences, and personal development that helps students cultivate their leadership skills, foster impactful relationships, and engage in experiences essential for their path from school to a fulfilling career. By engaging participants in academic and personal development activities, building outdoor skills and resilience, and providing direct mentorship, the program develops graduates who will not only advance in their careers but also exhibit leadership and contribute positively to their communities.REACH recruits an average of 135 high school juniors annually, working with up to three cohorts at a time, and supports them through the summer after their first year in college. Post-program graduation, students continue to receive mentorship as needed and resources to achieve their college success and outdoor access. In 2023, the REACH program was fully funded by a single donor.