Building Outdoor Education Capacity in Utah’s Mountain Regions
GrantID: 15193
Grant Funding Amount Low: $15,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $15,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Outdoor Education Programs for Youth in Utah
In Utah, the need for outdoor education programs for youth stems from a pressing disconnect between urban school systems and the rich natural landscapes that surround them. Efforts by the Utah Department of Natural Resources indicate that less than 50% of students from urban areas participate in supplemental outdoor education initiatives, which is critical in cultivating environmental stewardship and a connection to nature.
The geographic diversity of Utahspanning urban centers like Salt Lake City to vast mountainous terrainsmeans that youth in these urban areas often lack access to impactful outdoor learning opportunities. Studies show that exposure to natural environments can lead to significantly improved physical health outcomes, vital for combating the rising childhood obesity epidemic. However, this disconnect has resulted in an educational gap that can hinder students’ understanding of their environmental responsibilities and promote a lesser appreciation of natural resources.
Grants directed towards outdoor education programs aim to bridge this gap by providing funding for experiential learning activities that connect students directly with Utah's unique landscapes. Collaboration with outdoor organizations ensures that programs are developmentally appropriate and designed to engage students effectively. These initiatives seek to inspire a sense of environmental responsibility among youth, promoting values that can last a lifetime.
Targeted outcomes include not only increased engagement with outdoor activities but also enhanced knowledge surrounding environmental stewardship. Understanding the importance of conservation is critical in Utah, where outdoor recreation plays a vital role in the economy and community lifestyle.
Unlike neighboring states where such programs may focus on traditional classroom-based education, Utah’s initiative is uniquely aligned with the natural environment, fostering a holistic understanding of the relationship between youth and their surroundings. Through sustained funding, these outdoor education programs can empower a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens while improving their overall wellbeing.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
