Research confirms that the natural world offers a wide range of benefits for children.  Connecting with nature supports mental health, well-being, and resilience, while reducing stress and improving mood.  Experiences in nature help children develop mindfulness, manage behaviors and emotions, adapt to new environments, control impulses, and sharpen focus.  Time in nature also fosters a sense of identity, belonging, and connection to place.  Ultimately, children who regularly engage with the natural world are more likely to develop a lifelong appreciation for it—and a desire to protect it.  

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Unfortunately, childhood in the United States has become increasingly centered on indoor activities, and access to nature often depends on race, income, identity, ability and even zip code.  Reversing this trend will require sustained, community-level effort.

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The Joseph & Vera Long Foundation seeks to support organizations that provide meaningful, hands-on opportunities for school age children to explore and learn outdoors.  ​By funding programs and projects focused on experiential learning, we hope that more children in Northern California and Hawaii will have equitable access to experiences that deepen respect for nature, inspire stewardship of natural resources, and promote physical and emotional well-being.