Connecting children to nature is important. It helps reduce their risk for developing serious health problems, improves academic performance, lowers stress, and just makes them happier human beings.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department recognizes these benefits and is now leading an effort to develop a strategic plan to ensure that the children who need it the most have access to the outdoors and nature in their neighborhoods. The development of the strategic plan is being funded by a $25,000 grant from the national Cities Connecting Children to Nature Initiative, which is designed to help city leaders develop strategies for getting more young people outdoors and connected to nature, with a particular focus on children and youth in low-income and underserved communities.

Dozens of different local nonprofits, hospitals, and community organizations have already gotten involved in this planning effort. Now, it’s your turn. The city wants to learn more about how you view the importance of spending time outdoors, what keeps you from spending time in nature, and what the city can do to help you spend more time outside. You can share your thoughts here>>