As we celebrate Earth Day, it is important to reflect on our impact on the environment and the steps we can take to protect our planet for future generations. Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest is educating our local youth about the environment in partnership with the United States Forest Service and Urban Nature Partners PDX through our Outdoor Explorers Mentoring Program (OEMP). This program introduces Littles to the great outdoors by providing experiential trips throughout the year to explore the beauty and wonder of the Pacific Northwest with their Bigs by their side.
Studies have shown that youth are spending less time outdoors. This is especially true for underserved youth and youth of color who have less access to outdoor spaces and experiences. The health benefits of introducing kids to the outdoors are vast, showing positive impacts on their social behavior, mental health, and well-being. That is why programs like OEMP are so important. By engaging youth in activities like snowshoeing, gardening, invasive plant species removal, hiking, and canoeing at no cost, with safety, structure, and guidance built in, we are bridging this gap and promoting a love for the outdoors that will last a lifetime.
OEMP is about more than just exploring the outdoors, it is also about mentorship and the positive impact that nature can have on a young person’s life. During these outings, matches connect in a meaningful way by learning new skills together and by exploring the magnificent natural habitats of Oregon and Washington. Matches have the chance to build their confidence and self-esteem together while also learning about the world around them.
We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Beatrice Serrano, Co-lead for OEMP, whose instrumental role has been integral to its success.
Beatrice shared her passion for the program’s impact on children, stating, “I love witnessing the joy on children’s faces when they have the opportunity to explore the outdoors and try new experiences. As kids spend more time in front of screens, it’s important to support their curiosity for the natural world, especially when parents may not have the resources to take them outside.”
We also had the opportunity to speak with Liz Ficken, who serves as both a dedicated Big Sister and Ambassador Board Co-Chair. Liz shared her own positive experience with the program, saying,
“My Little Sis and I had a wonderful time exploring the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute. After snowshoeing, our guide led us into the Ape Cave lava tubes, where we experienced total darkness – something my Little had never encountered before. Since then, we’ve participated in more outdoor activities, which have been a blast! The experience also gave her added confidence when her class attended Outdoor School.” -Liz
We are incredibly grateful for the partnership of the U.S. Forest Service, Urban Nature Partners PDX, and our incredible Bigs for making this program and these outings possible. This Earth Day, we welcome you to take a moment to reflect on the impact we have on the environment and consider ways we can all make a positive difference together.
Looking for a way to get involved? Well, it just so happens that Earth Day falls within National Volunteer Month. Join the BBBS community by becoming a Big, you can learn more by clicking here. Your volunteerism can help to empower the potential of a local kid or teen and together we can promote outdoor exploration and education to inspire the next generation of outdoor stewards and help protect the natural world for years to come.
