Youth in Nature brings together RFOV’s first youth-focused giving circle
Youth In Nature 2025-2026 Cohort - Orientation
Youth in Nature (YIN) is one of RFOV’s most impactful signature programs. A visionary youth empowerment initiative, YIN provides a year-long, paid internship opportunity for high school students who are driven to become community leaders. Focusing on current conservation practices, career pathways and service learning experiences, this program equips young people to become lifelong stewards of our shared outdoors. Beyond stewardship, YIN gives students the opportunity for genuine self-discovery and community building within a diverse group of peers and mentors.
Initially funded as a three-year pilot program through a generous grant from the Jonathan D & Mark C. Lewis Foundation, Youth in Nature will become a primarily donor-funded initiative within the next three years, reducing dependence on grants, minimizing administrative costs and ensuring the program’s long-term success. To support this transition, RFOV has set up a new Young Stewards giving circle, with the goal to have donors funding 75% of the annual YIN budget by 2028. This is a fantastic opportunity for donors who are passionate about youth empowerment and civic engagement. Beginning summer 2025, donors are invited to join the Young Stewards giving circle with pledges of $2,500 or more.
Get additional details or make a pledge today by emailing Kelsey Brasseur, RFOV’s Development Director.
Youth in Nature 2024-2025 Cohort - Colorado National Monument
