Families In Nature and #NatureForAll at the #InsideOut2022 International Conference
Last May, #NatureForAll partner Families In Nature (FIN) attended the Children & Nature Network Inside Out International Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. As the new co-chair for #NatureForAll USA, FIN Founder and Executive Director Heather Kuhlken co led the #NatureForAll presentation on “Creating a World Inspired By #NatureForAll” with Lais Fleury (Alana Foundation) and Luis Camargo (OpEPA).
Families in Nature is so excited to be a partner with #NatureForAll, lifting up nature love stories, fostering the next generation of conservationists and building climate resilient, connected communities.
Throughout the conference FIN’s young leaders, Jordan Joly, Program Coordinator, and Sheridan Ray, Communications Intern, also created new partnerships through steadfast outreach, representing both FIN and #NatureForAll on a global scale.
In addition, Jordan presented “Green Play to Green Pay” at the poster session, depicting FIN’s program pipeline to green jobs, from Humboldt projects and mentorship opportunities to our newly implemented paid internship program. These opportunities for professional development and networking, especially as a young adult in the field, are priceless. Sharing a table with world leaders, taking a selfie with Rich Louv, and creating aligned friendships that last a lifetime, what more could a passionate, green professional ask for?
“The conference was extremely helpful as a youth in the world of conservation work! An example of one of the things I learned was how to change deficit based language to asset based language. It was also a very social experience as networking occurred around every corner. I received many contacts and made friends globally. The most important thing I learned was that even in a space full of intelligent, well-accomplished people, I still have something to contribute to the discussions and being in that space definitely validated the path in which I am heading!”
-Sheridan Ray (Communications Intern)
From outreach to poster sessions and formal presentations, Families in Nature represented nature connection on a global scale, impressing many thought leaders in the movement. Humbled by the power of 13-year-old, Yolanda Renee King’s (Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Junior’s granddaughter) speech and inspired by the joyful virtual banter between Dr. Jane Goodall and Richard Louv, FIN participants returned to Austin energized and motivated by the collaborative efforts worldwide to inspire and foster nature connection for all.
