Massive $735K Grant to Foster Outdoor Education for Utah's Youth

In a substantial move to enhance outdoor education, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation has allocated over $735,000 to various youth programs across the state, with a notable focus on Southern Utah.

 

This funding aims to provide children aged 6 to 18 with enriching outdoor experiences, fostering a deeper connection to the state's diverse natural landscapes.

 

Among the beneficiaries is the Zion National Park Forever Project, which received $15,000 for its Zion Youth Stewards initiative.

 

This program educates young participants on stewardship principles within Washington County, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural resources.

 

In Moab, the BEACON Afterschool Program was awarded $15,000 to expand its outdoor activities.

 

The funding supports hiking clubs, nature-based programs at elementary schools, and field trips for high school students, enriching the educational landscape of Grand County.

 

Science Moab's School to Science program also benefited, receiving over $14,000.

 

This initiative offers hands-on science field trips, allowing local youth to engage directly with the region's unique ecosystems.

 

Additionally, the Canyonlands Field Institute secured $11,000 to support affordable summer outdoor camps, providing children with opportunities to develop outdoor skills and learn about the area's landscapes.

 

These grants are part of the Utah Children's Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) program, which, in its latest cycle, awarded over $500,000 to 38 projects across 11 counties.

 

The initiative is expected to serve more than 23,000 youth, contributing to a total project value exceeding $2.4 million.

 

Caroline Weiler, the Division's youth engagement program manager, emphasized the program's impact, stating, "Every year, our UCORE Grant program inspires Utah's youth to explore, learn from, and appreciate our incredible natural landscapes."

 

These investments underscore Utah's commitment to fostering environmental stewardship and promoting healthy, active lifestyles among its younger residents.

 

By supporting a diverse range of programs, the state ensures that children from various backgrounds have the opportunity to connect with and learn from the outdoors.

 

For more information on the UCORE program and a complete list of funded projects, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation's official channels.