Youth in Parks (YIP) is a partnership between Point Reyes National Seashore Association (PRNSA) and local Bay Area nonprofit organizations focused on community building and mentorship primarily in Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and low-income communities. YIP allows us to reshape accessibility for all by offering environmental experiences at the Seashore for youth who have historically been excluded from public lands, and who are disproportionately impacted by environmental and social inequalities.

We are committed to working year-round with each program partner to co-create meaningful and repeat outdoor exploration and science experiences. Youth in Parks experiences build environmental literacy and share potential career paths with youth. With each visit to the Seashore youth feel a growing sense of belonging and bit-by-bit the park becomes their own. Through the program we aim to inspire a lifelong love for nature and a desire to preserve public lands.

Youth in Parks Partners

Our programs are growing! We are proud to build new community group partners and are pleased to work with school districts to bring classes to Point Reyes for experiences in nature with the support of Youth in Parks funding. Additional partners include: Marin County Free Library, El Dorado Union High School District, Oakland Unified School District, Shoreline Unified School District, and Richmond College Prep Schools.