The Parks Foundation’s Teen WILD (Wilderness-Inspired Leadership & Development) program is off to a strong and exciting start this season. The new team of teen volunteers has already made their presence known by supporting the Foundation’s booth at the year’s first Meet Me in the Street event. There, they engaged guests with fun and educational activities like spinning the prize wheel and answering questions about nature and the Eco Center. Their energy and enthusiasm brought a fresh spark to the event and set a positive tone for the season ahead.
In addition to public outreach, Teen WILD volunteers have been actively supporting environmental education efforts in local schools. Partnering with the Outdoor Connection program, they’ve already helped bring hands-on science and art activities to over 250 first through fifth-grade NVUSD students—in just the first week! Their presence adds valuable peer support and leadership to these environmental lessons, helping younger students connect with nature in creative, meaningful ways.
To prepare for their roles as youth leaders and environmental educators, the Teen WILD team recently participated in a docent naturalist training session with Tammy, the Foundation’s program naturalist. During this session, they learned how to keep young learners engaged, how to make outdoor experiences comfortable and inclusive, and how to tell compelling stories that make nature relatable. The training also covered techniques for supporting students with special needs, equipping the teens with the skills to be thoughtful and adaptable leaders in the field.
To put their new skills into practice, the teens teamed up to research local plants and animals, selecting species that sparked their personal interest. They then led a nature walk, taking turns presenting their findings to their peers and Foundation staff. Each teen brought a unique perspective and passion to their topic—sharing fun facts, personal connections, and even teaching staff something new along the way. It was a clear demonstration of their growing confidence and knowledge as nature educators.
Looking ahead, Teen WILD volunteers will continue their outreach by visiting new Boys & Girls Club sites and additional NVUSD school locations throughout July. The summer will conclude with an exciting educational kayaking trip along the Napa River—a chance for these young leaders to deepen their understanding of local ecology while celebrating their hard work and accomplishments. With their curiosity, dedication, and community spirit, the Teen WILD team is proving to be a powerful force for environmental education and positive youth leadership.