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V.I. EcoLearn - Ecological Education Research and Adventure Association hasn't added a story.
Together we are building a better understanding of central Vancouver Island’s ecosystems and natural wonders, enabling our community to cultivate a people and place consciousness.
Now, more than ever before, there is a need for everyone to step up and promote both personal and ecological well-being. Some very good ways of doing this in an outdoor context are: to build awareness of local ecosystems; increase our careful use of them; and promote better access to the wilderness and outdoors activities and opportunities. While this sounds straightforward, not everyone can do this easily. That’s how Vancouver Island EcoLearn (known as V.I. EcoLearn) a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering ecological education and well-being, found its mission.
Our mission is to improve awareness, knowledge, connection and commitment to local ecosystems and their use for education, community building, health and well-being.
One of the local treasures that V. I. EcoLearn supports to do this, is Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park. There has been a long history at the Caves of educational field trips taken by individuals, families, local community organizations and school groups. But, since 2020, the number of youth attendees has dropped by 50%. This decrease is due directly to the overall increased cost of living and the decrease of funding to schools for outdoor field trips.
Research tells us there is a significant disconnect between youth and nature because of the amount of “screen time” being used for entertainment as well as the lack of familiarity with or limited access to outdoor activities. Parents, teachers and health professionals all agree that this should change and that there are very positive mental and physical health benefits from being involved in recreation, adventure and outdoor experiences.
So, knowing these things – what do we do?
V.I. EcoLearn connects or reconnects people (specifically youth) to the land and nature through promoting inclusion and subsidizing outdoor adventure activities that are educational, challenging and knowledge building. We remove barriers for those who have difficulty accessing these types of opportunities, and we are pleased that there is interest in what we are doing and how we are doing it. Basically, we generate financial support from the community in order to connect those in need with exciting activities that they would otherwise not be able to enjoy.
We are bringing new visitors (to the Caves and other activities) by focusing on removing barriers to school groups with limited or no budgets, youth in need or at risk, a wide-range of equity deserving people and those who are new to Canada or new to this type of outdoor experience. To do this, and do it well, we need your help! Every contribution (large or small) moves us closer to our goal of:
Taking hundreds of ordinary people to extraordinary places!
The increase in the cost-of-living impacts all of us in all aspects of our lives, including the cost of doing business. We recognize that some small, locally owned businesses and community agencies are struggling to navigate these costs as are many of our community members. We work together (local businesses, community groups and individuals) to help promote what you do, as part of our commitment as we ask for your support and donations.
Through inclusive wide-ranging events and fundraising, we are expanding our influence and partnerships. We are becoming well positioned to help acknowledge generosity and promote what others do through a recognition and visibility. It is a real collective effort, where we all benefit.
Working together for the betterment of our communities by ensuring that everyone—regardless of age, background, or financial constraints—can access outdoor adventures, opportunities, and knowledge.
Your gift to V.I. EcoLearn will bridge the gaps and reduce barriers to adventure and ecological stewardship in our region. It is a testament to the power of community-driven awareness that is offering youth and community members the chance to engage in outdoor educational programs often described as "life altering".
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