Inspiring the Next Generation of Park Stewards

The average American child spends 5 to 8 hours a day in front of a phone, tablet, TV or computer — and only 12 minutes of active time outdoors.

Studies continue to show that many young people do not spend much time outside.

Little time playing. Exploring. Or just being kids.

Studies continue to show that many young people do not spend much time outside. Little time playing. Exploring. Or just being kids. This is a trend we will continue to address as NPF introduces millions of young people to the national parks.

The benefits our national parks offer are physical, social, emotional, and intellectual.

From all backgrounds and communities

By engaging more youth in our parks, we will nurture a lifelong love of nature and an appreciation of the nation’s rich history and culture.

Here’s how you can inspire the next generation of park stewards

Outdoor Exploration & Youth Education

NPF’s Open OutDoors for Kids initiative provides opportunities for fourth-grade students, particularly from underserved and urban communities, to experience national parks in person.
Your support will remove barriers to accessing these parks, including providing transportation to increase ease of access.

Partner Communities

Growing the park partner community is essential to creating a more robust and productive philanthropic community in national parks. NPF’s Strong Parks, Strong Communities initiative, fueled by your generosity, will continue to build the capacity of local philanthropic organizations and engage future leaders and stewards.

Workforce Development

Service Corps bring together local work crews to address recreation access, habitat restoration, disaster response, and historic preservation. Participants include young adults, veterans, members of tribal groups, and those from communities traditionally less connected to national parks.
Gifts to the campaign will be used to dramatically expand this unique program, giving many more participants the opportunity to develop a love of parks, gain leadership skills, and make a positive impact on our parks.

Impact Highlights

Youth Engagement & Education

National parks are America’s largest classrooms providing hands-on learning experiences to children of all ages.

Communities & Workforce

Programs with park partners and volunteers strengthen ties and inspire stewardship.

Service Corps Project of the Year

Northwest Youth Corps’ Sound to Summit Program awarded Corps Network Project of the Year.

A Milestone for Open OutDoors for Kids

One of NPF’s signature programs has connected more than 2 million students to parks.

Expanding Fellowship Opportunities

Mellon Foundation grants $13 million to support postdoctoral fellowships at parks nationwide.

"National parks are America’s treasures. It is up to each of us to protect these places and the stories they reveal for generations that follow."

"Your partnership will bring about transformative change as we address the urgent challenges facing our parks today."

Chuck Sams
19th Director
National Park Service