The Children's Nature Institute established its Outreach Discovery Division in 1992 in an effort to reach underserved youth primarily in the inner-city area of Los Angeles. The program provides free nature field trips and transportation for over 100 inner-city schools, shelters, teen parents and their kids, and other organizations serving children with special needs.

Every year, we serve 10,000 disadvantaged children, their parents and teachers!

Our CNI Wonder Mobile began visiting inner-city schools in 2000 to strengthen their existing science curriculum through hands-on science activities. A variety of combination programs in our Outreach division enable children to benefit from field trips, teacher workshops and science courses for parents. Multiple exposures to our unique curriculum reinforces the impact of the public school science curriculum on young students.

On our nature walks, children from the inner-city and at-risk neighborhoods step out of their urban environments and experience nature first-hand.

CNI docents use sensory-based activities on the trail that allow children to discover the wonders of nature for themselves. Children are encouraged to become nature detectives - to observe, smell, feel, and listen to the natural environment in an effort to understand it. More importantly, they learn why they should respect nature and the simple steps they can take to preserve it. Many teachers attest to the amazing effect our nature walks have on their kids...



"One little child used to draw only in black. After seeing the colors of flowers and leaves he wanted different colors, the colors he had seen in nature." -- Project Coordinator of a shelter, name withheld by request

"Neighborhood children must play in dirty alleys because there are no parks in the area. Families fear going outside after dark because of gang violence. The field trip was a special experience for our children. They felt safe and ran around confidently in the field. God bless you in your work." -- Phillip Cunliffe, St. Francis Center

"As inner-city children, many students only read about nature. Your organization provided them with the opportunity to explore the vivid colors, sounds and scents of "Nature's Playground". I thank you for the invaluable memory you have instilled in our children." -- Jurnie Sugahara, Amestoy School

To find out if your group or school is eligible for an Outreach nature program, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.
 
You can help support Outreach walks through donations, membership or by volunteering. If you would like to make a monetary or in-kind contribution, you may reach us at:

The Children's Nature Institute
1910 Magnolia Ave, #403
Los Angeles, CA 90007

or by calling (213) 746-2966.

© 2009 The Children's Nature Institute. All rights reserved.

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