National Outdoor Learning Alliance Receives Grant to Launch Free Afterschool Program for Children in Need in the Treasure Valley
For Immediate Release: Thursday, December 28, 2023
Contacts:
Kaelan Young, Director of Development and Operations, 228.860.2278
Andrea Richey, Development Coordinator, 713.542.6246
National Outdoor Learning Alliance Receives Grant to Launch Free Afterschool Program for Children in Need in the Treasure Valley
BOISE, ID — The National Outdoor Learning Alliance is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a generous grant of $4,254 from the Whittenberger Foundation to initiate a groundbreaking afterschool program at EverWild Forest School in Boise. This program is specifically for children who come from low-income families, ensuring that outdoor learning opportunities are accessible to all.
The Whittenberger Foundation, a stalwart supporter of initiatives benefiting children and young people since 1973, has chosen the National Outdoor Learning Alliance as a recipient of their esteemed grant. The foundation is renowned for its commitment to fostering collaboration among organizations and supporting projects that make a tangible difference in the lives of youth.
The grant will empower the National Outdoor Learning Alliance to host a free afterschool program at EverWild Forest School, aiming to counteract the negative health effects of poverty on youth through increased access to safe green spaces. EverWild Forest School, known for its immersive and impactful learning experiences, employs a holistic, whole-child approach to afterschool care, allowing children to engage with nature, expand their knowledge, and develop crucial life skills. The carefully crafted curriculum will encourage participants to explore the wonders of the outdoors, engage in hands-on activities, and foster a deep appreciation for the environment.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Whittenberger Foundation for their unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation," said Kaelan Young, Director of Development and Operations for the National Outdoor Learning Alliance. "This grant allows us to break down barriers and ensure that children who may face economic challenges have the chance to experience the transformative power of outdoor education."
The Whittenberger Foundation's ongoing mission to support area programs and encourage collaboration resonates deeply with the goals of the National Outdoor Learning Alliance. This partnership exemplifies the shared commitment to creating positive, lasting impacts on the lives of young people in the Boise community.
The National Outdoor Learning Alliance expresses its sincere appreciation to the Whittenberger Foundation for their vision and generosity. Together, these organizations are poised to make a significant and lasting difference in the lives of children, promoting a love for learning, a connection to nature, and a pathway to future success.
Eligibility for the free afterschool program is based on total household income and size in the month the application is filled out. Families are invited to complete the application here.
About the National Outdoor Learning Alliance:
The National Outdoor Learning Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding outdoor educational opportunities for students across the nation. With a focus on immersive, hands-on programs, NOLA strives to instill a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world in students of all ages. For additional details, please visit www.outdoorlearningalliance.org.
About the Whittenberger Foundation:
The Whittenberger Foundation, established in 1973, is a philanthropic organization committed to supporting programs and projects that enhance the well-being and development of children and young people. The Foundation collaborates with organizations to create positive and lasting change in communities. For additional details, please visit http://www.whittenberger.org.
