Education is the future of the outdoors and responsibility
Learning in outdoor spaces is one of the most remarkable experiences imaginable. Students of the wilderness grow in a beautiful way that you just don’t get in any classroom. Not only do students learn about the outdoor environment they also learn how their actions and choice affect the environment. They learn to be sustainable consumers and in affect become stewards of the natural world. Outdoor education is a fundamental learning block of corporate social responsibility in the outdoors. Without knowledge of how we can take care of our planet the socially and environmentally ethical aspect of outdoor recreation would be nonexistent.
I dove into learning about more local and other U.S. based outdoor education programs.
Locally Grown
Located just on the edge of the University of Oregon campus is our very own Outdoor Program. Through the barn students and community members have the opportunity to enjoy renting various outdoor equipment, a bike repair shop as well as social and educational trip opportunities. The Outdoor Program encourages all skill levels to get outdoors and strives for inclusivity of all in the outdoors. The low-cost outings of the OP are a great learning environment for students to enjoy outdoor spaces while meeting new friends.
Teaching kids about the value of social and environmental responsibility is crucial for our future. Whole Earth Nature School is located in Eugene and is dedicated to teaching kids “confidence, resilience and nature kinship.” They have a variety of different programs for children ranging from age 3 to 17. WENS is also dedicated to “More than just playing outside…Changing lives with mentoring in nature connection.” The program offers internships, volunteer opportunities, scholarships and endless programs that make this a great opportunity for everyone.
Out of Town Options
Young leaders in the world are shaping the future of our planet and how businesses handle corporate social responsibility and other important topics of inclusion. The National Outdoor Leadership School dedicates its resources to education in beautiful wilderness areas all over the world. NOLS offers courses on medicine, expeditions, risk management and more. The organization has a deep connection between alumni, instructors and current students. Through this sense of community, students learn the value of taking care of themselves, creating an inclusive place for others, responsibility in the outdoors, ethical practices and more.
Through these dignified programs everyone can learn how enjoyable outdoor adventure is while learning how to take care of the planet and being socially responsible individuals.
