Youth Engagement & Education
Our national parks are America’s largest classroom, providing our children with eye-opening and hands-on learning experiences. By supporting the National Park Foundation, you’re helping the next generation engage with the places that have connected us to nature and with our history.
From an early age, national parks play a huge role in our personal growth. They connect us to nature and our nation’s history in incredible ways. The National Park Foundation's (NPF) Youth Engagement & Education programs help us ensure the parks have just as big of an impact on the next generation. With curriculums and experiences that bring to life what they learn in the classroom, these programs give kids the chance to connect with the world in new ways. To understand our country’s history more deeply. And to make memories that will last a lifetime.
By the Numbers
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2Million KidsSince 2011, more than 2 million kids have been connected to our national parks through the Open OutDoors for Kids program.
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84Park SitesIn 2022, our Open OutDoors for Kids program supported 84 unique educational programs in in-person, hybrid, and virtual environments.
Programs
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Open OutDoors for Kids Open OutDoors for Kids -
Field Science Field Science
Premier Partner
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Union Pacific RailroadLearn More
As the largest private sponsor of Open OutDoors for Kids, Union Pacific Railroad is proud to encourage young adventurers to explore America’s national parks.
Updates
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UpdateNPF Increases its Commitment to Open OutDoors for Kids and Awards $5 Million in Grants
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UpdateExploring Hometown History at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
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UpdateNPF to Support Youth and Community Fishing Experiences in Parks Across the Country
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UpdateNPF Celebrates 2023 Accomplishments
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Update$4.4 Million to Fund 99 Open OutDoors for Kids Projects for 2023 – 2024 School Year, Hitting Program Milestone
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UpdateNPF Celebrates 2022 Accomplishments
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UpdateConnecting Students with the Living Laboratory of Jean Lafitte
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UpdateWorking Together for the Future of Parks
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UpdateAnother Year of Impact in Our Parks
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UpdateSchool is Back in Session
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UpdateDistance Learning on the Mississippi River
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UpdateOpening Outdoor Adventures for Youth in Urban Communities
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UpdateCelebrating a Year of Achievements in Our National Parks
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UpdateCitizen Scientists Explore the Anacostia Watershed