Impact at a glance
September 2023 - August 2024
Community Members
Engaged:
481 Days in Nature:
82% of summer campers increased awareness of jobs/ careers that could be pursued
91% of Family Camp attendees increased sense of belonging in community
315 Number of Overnight Camps or Outings: 46
85% of C2C youth students report increased time spent engaging in physical activity
100% of YES teens graduated from high school and enrolled in college
Average Number of Activities
Attended: 5
INCREASE ACCESS
YES Nature to Neighborhoods was founded 25 years ago on the belief that connection to nature is an inherent right for us all. Since then, over 13,000 community members of all ages have joined us to find belonging, healing, and community in the outdoors.
This vision of building belonging in nature is still a cornerstone of YES's programs where participants deepen their sense of connection and wonder to increase access to the outdoors for all.
"YES is here to expand possibility and opportunity, to do everything we can to make sure that no one is refused access, that no one is left behind, that we all breathe in the possibilities offered by nature without putting some above others."
–Diane Mintz, YES Founder
CREATE BRAVE SPACES
Alongside nature, community is at the heart of YES’s work. In diverse spaces where cross-cultural and intergenerational relationships are fostered, participants of all ages feel confident to explore new perspectives, identify and overcome challenges, and find belonging.
YES not only creates brave spaces in our programs, but our staff also leads efforts in the environmental and youth development fields for inclusivity and healing-centered engagement. This year, team members presented to global audiences on the importance of creating brave spaces for youth at the World Environmental Education Congress in Abu Dhabi and the International Sports Programming Initiative’s convening in Fiji.
YES’ sfrstFamilyCamp created an opportunityforeveryoneto be acamper , withthe space to play andheal –together. march 204
“My family has been a part of YES for over 20 years and it has influenced the way that we interact with one another. I’ve always had a good relationship with my family. I apply this closeness to the fact that we have had shared experiences through YES.”
–Kahlil,
YES Alum
CULTIVATE LEADERSHIP
While away at camp, we see that youth and adults alike have the opportunity to exhibit their strengths and leadership skills in ways they may not at home. Whether that’s guiding others in a team activity, demonstrating a skill, or sharing information about the nature they see.
To nourish these skills beyond the camp season, YES created year-round programs where participants of all ages see themselves as leaders and contribute their unique strengths to their community. Today, we have eight year-round leadership development cohorts specially designed for all ages 8+, progressing through themes of nature exploration, environmental science, community advocacy, and personal growth.
The frst cohort ofWellnessNavigators, t he r o o t s fo ruo modern Adult LeadershipPathway, graduated fro m H e laht Pretomor Training as community advocatesforphy s icaland men t a l h e a l t h . January20 1 3
Summer 2024
42teensages13-17 explored leadershipandgained newskillsthrough various roles at summercamps, backingexcursions, and educationalfellowships.
RECLAIM CONNECTION
Intentional time in the outdoors–regulated by natural rhythms and fresh air–is an incredible tool in helping us heal from personal and collective traumas. To better leverage the foundation of nature to facilitate healing in the outdoors, YES integrates a range of social emotional learning and wellness practices into our adventures.
Across all cohorts, practices like journaling, storytelling, and team-building exercises further support emotional growth. Through the addition of wellness programming and socialemotional learning into outdoor experiences, YES empowers youth and adults to develop key skills such as emotional intelligence, collaboration, and empathy—skills that transcend the trail and enrich their relationships and communities.
october 2012
Y o uth unwi ndbypreparingandsharing a meal during a twoni ghtbackpackingtripin Desolation Wilderness.
Th e frstWalktoNature (2012-2016) showcasedtheabundance and accessibilityofnatural spaces righthereinRichmond.
August 2024
YES is grateful to the hundreds of individuals and institutions who share our value of living in a thriving, connected community, where everyone has equitable access to the healing power of nature and leadership opportunities. Every contribution–be it time, money, energy, goods, connections, or a kind word– is equally valued and appreciated.
Today, your support helps cultivate BIPOC leaders. Tomorrow, these compassionate leaders will bring to life our shared vision of a just and equitable community as stewards of parks, advocates for climate justice, and champions of health and wellbeing.
Thank you for being on this journey with us.
We're endlessly grateful for the trust, support, and guidance of the Richmond and West County community that has driven us through 25 years of growth and immeasurable joy.
YES remains steadfastly committed to bringing the restorative power of nature and community to more youth and families in the years ahead.
As we set forward to provide these opportunities, your continued partnership spurs us on.
