Save the Redwoods League’s Post

Did you know that April is Children and Nature Awareness Month? In a world filled with screens and technology, reconnecting children with nature is crucial. It's not just about having fun outdoors; it's about nurturing their curiosity, fostering empathy for the environment, and instilling a sense of stewardship for our planet. 🌱 From exploring local parks to planting gardens and going on nature scavenger hunts, there are endless ways to engage children with the outdoors. Let's prioritize these experiences as they can shape their perspectives, values, and ultimately, their future relationship with the Earth. 🌍 #aloneshow #nicoleapelian #naturalwellness #natureswellness #wilderness #nature #getoutside #natureconnection #naturalconnection #connectiontonature #childrenandnatureawarenessmonth #children #natureawareness #childrenandnature #natureeducation #outdoorplay #environmentaleducation #earthstewardship #natureexploration #screenfreechildhood #naturelove #outdoorlearning #kidsinnature #earthconnection #greengeneration #natureappreciation #natureforall #natureplay #earthconscious #natureinspires

'In many parts of the world, #AccessToNature is not equal. In the US, both income and higher education are significantly linked with living near accessible #greenspace. Public parks in neighbourhoods with majority #black, #indigenous and #peopleofcolour residents have been found to be half the size and almost five times as crowded, compared with parks in predominantly white areas. The picture is similar in the UK – 2020 research suggested that 40% of people in the UK from #ethnicminority backgrounds lived in the areas most deprived of green space, compared with 14% of white people. KangJae "Jerry" Lee, is an assistant professor in the department of parks, recreation and tourism management at the University of Utah, and his research has explored, among other things, why ethnic minorities are far less likely to visit nature-based recreation areas than white people. "There's no doubt that the devastating effect of historical #racism, racist decisions in the past, still lingers in today's society," says Lee. There has been an "astonishingly consistent" historical pattern in how indigenous people and people of colour have had their access to the #outdoors "curtailed by rich and influential white environmental leaders", he says. #Nationalparks in the US, such as Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park, "were created through Euro-Americans' genocide committed against indigenous peoples", Lee says. "While many white Americans celebrate national parks as symbols of #nationalidentity, patriotism, and #natureconservation, many indigenous peoples and #NativeAmericans see them as sites of oppression and humiliation." These cultural associations as well as lack of access are just some of the barriers that can make it harder for people from ethnic minorities to spend time in nature – and access the wealth of physical and mental benefits that brings. One poll by the UK's Woodland Trust found a lack of access to green space was linked to #climateanxiety. Conversely, a growing body of evidence suggests that spending more time in nature can reduce #stress and improve #mood. Today, a number of groups are trying to remedy this #inequality in access to nature, one hike at a time. Groups like Hood Hikers and Black Girls Trekkin in the US and Muslim Hikers in the UK – are forming #grassroots communities, some outdoors organisations that have historically been less diverse are taking steps to become more inclusive.' #uk #usa #race #recreation

Earth Day is approaching and in our latest blog post we share a few ways on how to celebrate and participate in your community! Find both educational and volunteer events coming up this weekend and next. 🌎 READ HERE - https://lnkd.in/gPCmpnpJ #blogpost #earthday

🌿 Diversity in Action: Earth Day Reflections 🌿 Last Friday, Justine Johnson, our Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Rachel Hansen from MoonTree Studios, enlightened us on the interconnectivity of nature and society. We dove deep into Intersectional Environmentalism and discovered the charming world of Bug Hotels. Here are four key takeaways: 1. Intersectionality Matters: Justine Johnson unveiled how environmental issues are inextricably linked with social justice, advocating for a world where nature's care is everyone's affair. 2. Habitat Hospitality: Rachel Hansen introduced us to the eco-friendly world of Bug Hotels, vital for supporting our local ecosystem's littlest inhabitants. 3. Environmental Equity: Emphasizing the need for inclusive environmental policies that acknowledge and address all community members' diverse impacts and contributions. 4. DIY Conservation: Encouraging everyone to become a backyard conservationist by creating Bug Hotels, fostering a hospitable environment for beneficial insects. #IntersectionalEnvironmentalism #BugHotels #EarthWeek #PHJCCommunity #PHJC #PoorHandmaidsofJesusChrist

Check out my recent article, "Diving into Diversity: Empowering Black and Brown youth aquatic exploration and conservation," below! #News #Eduation #Youth

Q. “Does it ever get exhausting to have to go back year after year and argue the same cause?” A. “Yeah, but that’s the reality, that’s the mission. The benefit is that you secure resources to preserve and protect the places that you love. And if you love these places and the experiences they provide, it's motivation enough.” Did you hear us on Backpacker Radio? Outdoor Alliance CEO Adam Cramer talks about how outdoor recreation groups are revitalizing the conservation movement. Learn more about the work we do at Outdoor Alliance, the conservation movement at large, and interesting data from some of our recent policy reports. https://lnkd.in/gh7FufNd

For more than 50 years, Earth Day has signified a time for people to come together to invest in the health of the environment both locally and globally.🌎 As one of the largest groups of land managers and community service providers, park and recreation professionals and their agencies are essential to these environmental efforts. Several agencies shared their Earth Day and Month initiatives with us in the April issue of Parks & Recreation magazine. Read the full article to... 🌎Learn how Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation in North Carolina is promoting nature and agriculture as one of their main missions year-round. 🌎Explore what parks and recreation in Wichita, Kansas is doing to remind folks how important it is to take care of our environment. 🌎Discover the 2024 Annual Bike to Earth Day event held by the City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation in Indiana. 🌎Hear from Douglasville, Georgia Parks and Recreation on replenishing the tree canopy in a recently renovated park, which suffered a loss of trees during construction. 🌎Get a taste of the fun events and volunteer efforts put on by the Forest Preserves in Cook County, Illinois that allow people to give back to the natural world. 🌎Find out how the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department in Cary, North Carolina is getting community members involved in climate actions and stewardship strategies through dozens of programs. Read the full article: https://bit.ly/4cI0dRV #PowerOfParks #NRPAEarthMonth #EarthDay #EarthMonth #Conservation #WhereYouBelong #ClimateHero #Parks #Recreation #Environment #Sustainability #Nature

Celebrating the Power of Collaboration as We Approach Our Indigenous Youth Voices for Conservation Snowboarding Trip! As we draw nearer to our much-anticipated Indigenous Youth Voices for Conservation Snowboarding Trip, we find ourselves immersed in a profound sense of gratitude for each and every supporter who has rallied behind our cause. It's not just about acknowledging the power of collaboration; it's about recognizing that community-led ideas pave the way for community-led solutions. In the spirit of the proverb, "It takes a village," we are reminded that creating pathways for Indigenous youth is a trailblazing endeavor—one that requires the collective efforts of a community united in purpose. Like the intricate seasons of our lives depicted in the medicine wheel, we see the interconnectedness of wildlife, the changing seasons, and their integral roles in ecology and our environment. Collaboration, much like the delicate balance of nature, involves various moving pieces seamlessly integrating shared missions. We envision collaboration not only within the native community but also with allies, partners, and those who passionately believe in this work and who also believes in the future of our youth. It's a powerful force that transcends boundaries and embraces diversity, echoing the harmony reflected in the natural world. To each voice that contributes, whether from within the native community or beyond, we extend our heartfelt appreciation. Your support—whether through sharing a post, making a donation, participating in fundraising efforts, or contributing to the organizational intricacies of this trip—holds immense value. We recognize that everyone plays a unique role in the community, building pathways of change. As we embark on this journey, we carry with us the collective strength of each individual who has joined hands with us, so many to name. Thank you for being a part of this transformative experience. Together, we are not just shaping a trip; we are shaping a future where the voices of Indigenous youth echo with resilience and reverence for the environment. Text - Give Native - to 44-321 to support our coming native youth trip or visit our website: https://lnkd.in/gVYdEM32 Consider becoming a monthly partner to help stem our infrastructure of building this collective work throughout the year. Please #SHARE  Wopila - Hohou - Thank You! #IndigenousYouthVoices #CommunityCollaboration #PathwaysOfChange

Understanding the Leave No Trace Principles: The Leave No Trace principles consist of seven ethical and practical guidelines designed to empower outdoor enthusiasts to relish nature responsibly and sustainably. Developed by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental education, these principles are rooted in scientific research and expert consensus. They are universally applicable, encompassing a range of outdoor activities from hiking and camping to fishing and boating. #camping #nature #environment

🌲🎉 𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮 #𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀? Have you heard about Tree Parties? They are a fantastic way to celebrate our natural resources and bring communities together to appreciate and protect our trees. These activity is designed to encourage people of all ages to connect with nature, learn about the importance of trees, and take action to support a greener future. What Happens at a Tree Party? 🌳 Tree planting: Gather your friends, family, and neighbors to plant new trees in your local area. It's a hands-on way to make a lasting impact. 🌳Educational activities: Participate in workshops, guided walks, and talks to learn about tree care, biodiversity, and the environment. 🌳Creative fun: Enjoy arts and crafts, storytelling, and music – all centered around the theme of trees and nature. 🌳Community bonding: These events are a wonderful opportunity to strengthen community bonds and work together for a common cause. By hosting or attending a Tree Party, you contribute to an effort to protect and celebrate our vital tree population. Here you have an example of the tree party organised by The Tree Council for the National tree week 2023 in UK! 🔗https://lnkd.in/eHGVPmUq Let's come together to plant, protect, and celebrate trees! 🌍🌳🎉 #TreeParty #NationalTreeWeek #Sustainability #Community #GreenLiving #EnvironmentalAction