The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy + Outdoor Chattanooga recently announced new year-round outdoor programming for local area youth and families.
The Kids in Parks programming is designed for Southeast Tennessee youth + families to experience “the physical and mental health benefits of being outside.”
“Outdoor activities are typically a very accessible means of finding health and happiness, yet some barriers still exist, particularly in low-income communities,” said Alex Wyss, executive director of Tennessee State Parks Conservancy. “This program aims to bridge that gap and provide a welcoming environment for everyone in the community.”
Participants take trips to state parks like Harrison Bay, Booker T. Washington, Red Clay, etc. to learn more about nature from experts + get more comfortable in the environment through hands-on activities like snorkeling and hiking.
The program, which has secured enough funds to run for at least two years, is currently limited to a select number of schools + students, with hopes to expand throughout the state.
