“In partnership with nature, YES! nurtures leaders who champion the wellbeing of our community. Our vision is for Richmond youth, adults and families to lead healthy, connected lives; motivate change in their neighborhoods; and inspire a safe, thriving community.” — YES! Nature to Neighborhoods

 

 

YES! Nature to Neighborhoods is based in Richmond, CA and focuses on providing access to nature, environmental education, and leadership development for underrepresented youth, adults and families. Their mission is to promote social and environmental justice, empowering young people and their families to improve their health and wellbeing while cultivating stewardship of the natural world.

 

 

Photo credits: YES! Nature to Neighborhoods

 

Since 1999, YES! has provided outdoor access to over 5,500 youth from Richmond and West Contra Costa County through sleep-away summer camp and local outdoor camp days. According to one participant, “I gained a lot of knowledge about forests and animals and leg muscles.”

 

YES! promotes the right of everyone to experience the transformative power of nature. They provide access to internships, leadership development, educational, and employment opportunities. While working on the community garden in Nicholl Park, participants develop organizational and planning skills while utilizing plants chosen for their drought-tolerant and medicinal characteristics.

 

 

Access to green spaces and environmental education is often limited for marginalized communities. YES! Nature to Neighborhoods is directly reducing environmental inequalities and promoting social equity.