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Programs - General - Programs

What is a Champion?

Champions are program organizers, who champion the cause of environmental education for urban young people. They are accountable for organizing the Learn About Forests™ (LAF™) program and improving community relations in their area. They bring together youth, natural resource professionals and natural sites. Champions advocate for the LAF™ programs in alliance with Eagle Eye Institute within their own organization and with all of their potential partners.

Who can be a Champion?

Anyone who aligns with the LAF™ mission! A Champion can be anyone who believes in the LAF™ mission to provide hands-on, exploratory learning on forest-related environmental topics for underserved urban youth.

Examples of an ChampionEXAMPLES HERE

  • A youth worker who wants to provide an opportunity for young people in his or her organization
  • An environmental education center that wants to reach out to urban youth
  • A natural resource professional looking to expand education at his or her agency
  • A community member committed to creating more connections among people in the community

"As a Champion, I saw the transformation that is the spirit of the LAF program. I witnessed the walls that separate all of us dissolve. The forest is the most natural setting for such an amazing experience." - Bill Labich, Natural Resource Proffessional Characteristics of an Ideal Champion

  • Spirit!
  • A love of people and a desire to build lasting relationships around a common goal
  • Dedication to connecting people with the natural world
  • Commitment to expanding opportunities for underserved urban youth

Logistical Requirements

This person must be able to commit a few hours a week during the planning stage, some office supplies, equipment or funding for equipment, and a couple of full days to run the programs.

Learn More About™ Champions

  • View a list of current LAF™ Champions providing programs for urban youth in other parts of the country and Champions from The Trustees of Reservations who are part of the Green Industry Career Pathway program
  • View a list of past LAF™ Champions


Contact us to become a Champion!