VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Parks Foundation of Clark County is pleased to announce the expansion of its Nature Explore Club to include three new partners: Vancouver Summer Adventure, the US Forest Service, and Kiwanis Camp Wa-Ri-Ki.
“This partnership will allow us to better serve the community in providing opportunities for families to get their children outdoors and engaged with nature,” Cheri Martin, Executive Director of the Parks Foundation said. “We are very excited at the ability to expand and grow the program thanks to the support of our new partners.”
Nature Explore Clubs are informal groups of families and friends who meet to explore parks, trails, open spaces, and national forests throughout the community and region. No experience is necessary and the program is free. Ideas for creative outings and fun activities for children of all ages will be posted on the Vancouver Summer Adventure website and Facebook page. Application forms are available online at http://www.parksfoundation.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/NECP_registration_rev2014.pdf or by contacting John Givvines at 360-891-5001 or [email protected]. Backpacks are available at the US Forest Service, 10600 NE 51st Circle, Vancouver and also for daily check-out at the Mount St. Helens Coldwater Science and Learning Center.
“Vancouver Summer Adventure works to encourage kids and families to Eat Smart, Play Hard, Experience Nature, Learn, and Serve all summer long,” commented Anne Johnston, RN Clark County Public Health. “We are very excited to partner with the Parks Foundation of Clark County and the US Forest Service to expand the Nature Explore Club as it perfectly aligns with Vancouver Summer Adventure’s goal of getting families outside and experiencing the nature around them.”
“Helping families and communities understand how nature matters and provides is core to the Forest Service mission,” said Garth Smelser, Deputy Forest Supervisor. “The Nature Explore Club facilitates these community engagement opportunities, and we feel very lucky to be involved in a partnership making these connections happen.”
