Getting Kids Outdoors Through Need More Outdoors

How do we ensure the pristine condition of the rivers and land we love for today’s youth – as well as future generations to come? THE ANSWER IS SIMPLE: introduce young people to the wonders of the natural world by getting them outdoors.  This is the role that Need More Outdoors has taken on here in Western North Carolina.

From the lush greenery that blankets the Great Smoky Mountains, to the rivers and streams that we hold near and dear to our hearts, Western North Carolina (WNC) is considered by many to be an OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND PARADISE.  In 2022 alone, North Carolina hosted approximately 43 million visitors coming from all across the world – many who came to WNC to experience the beauty of nature that is offered here.  Need More Outdoors recognizes that It is unfortunate that the lack of opportunity to experience nature means young people growing up in western North Carolina don’t always share the same experiences as visitors do.

Through our KAYAK AND ECO-SPLASH CAMPS, young people who live here in the 828 area can learn to navigate rivers, explore the eco-systems found around the rivers, connect with the natural environment and cultivate a love for nature that will fuel a passion to protect it. We have programs from early spring through Fall.  Need More Outdoors wants to see all young people have equal opportunity to get outdoors. We offer scholarships for local individuals  or WNC-based organizations who want to adventure, but might not be able to afford the cost of outdoor adventures.

“We can only love what we know, and we can only protect what we love.” 

Resources:
“The More Children Know of the Natural World, the More They’ll Want to Protect It | Lucy Jones and Kenneth Greenway.” The Guardian, 22 Aug. 2021, www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/22/children-natural-world-protect-earth.