Each quarter, we choose an organization that is near and dear to our hearts as our Pledge 1% recipient. The Pledge 1% movement challenges companies to donate 1% of their revenue, product, or employee time (or all three) to support local nonprofit organizations. This summer quarter, we are excited to announce Nature Ninos as our Pledge 1% recipient.
“It's important to us that we give back to the world that supports us. Pledge 1% makes it easy to honor that commitment by making sure that we are always donating to charitable causes, whether a little or a lot, in good times and bad.” – Tavis Malcolm, Founder of Morrison Outdoors
This incredible organization expands access to the outdoors, especially for youth and families, so they can explore and enjoy the lands of New Mexico safely. They encourage making connections and memories associated with the land so that our youth can grow to be better stewards of the environment. We chatted with Sarah, the Youth Program Director, to learn more about all this organization has to offer. Here’s what she shared with us:
What is Nature Ninos?
Nature Niños is the youth initiative of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation. Established in 2019, Nature Niños is engaging New Mexicans of all ages in outdoor learning and adventure - adding to the century of work already done by the New Mexico Wildlife Federation.
What is Your Mission?
As the Federation's youth initiative, Nature Niños is an entry point. We provide safe, inclusive, and welcoming spaces to invite youth and families to make their own connections and memories with nature. Our goal is to introduce and encourage all New Mexicans, of all ages, to explore and enjoy our lands and waters safely and freely. We expand access to the outdoors, share all it has to offer, and build skills to grow the next generation of conservationists, land stewards, and recreationalists.
Why is it Important to Get Families and Youth into Nature?
When a child catches their first trout, or sees an eagle take flight, or explores a backcountry trail, they light up, they learn something new, they connect. But it's not always easy to get outside-it might seem far, unfamiliar, or there's just not enough time in the day. That's where Nature Niños comes in! We are the New Mexico Wildlife Federation's youth initiative, and we are here to be your outdoor learning team. We take the guesswork out of getting outside so families-across generations-can access and explore the outdoors alongside a family-focused, professional team.
What Programs, Events, or Resources do You Provide for the Community?
Nature Niños' trusted, professional team offers many free and low-cost opportunities for kids and families including summer camp, day programs, family hikes, and events throughout the year. Together, across generations, we learn to fish, hike, shoot a bow, harvest and eat wild foods, track wild game, nature journal, and so much more. Whether you're an experienced explorer or new to the outdoors, there is a place that's just right for your family and we're here to help you find it. You can always follow our events on our website or on social media.
Is There Anything Else You Would Like to Share?
WE WORK to connect youth and families, across generations, to learning with nature and experiencing outdoor opportunities.
WE PROVIDE pay-as-you-can sliding scale opportunities, making free and low-cost options accessible to reduce barriers of participation in outdoor recreation.
WE PARTNER with schools, teachers, and organizations across New Mexico to expand the horizons of outdoor education and uplift our collective work.
In support of this incredible organization, we are directing a portion of every sale made in July, August, and September to help Nature Ninos provide excellent programs and opportunities for families and youth in New Mexico.
We believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and we are proud to support organizations that share this mindset! Check out the Nature Ninos website for more information on programs and events happening this summer.
Photos Courtesy of Sarah from Nature Ninos
