Environment Rotary Fellowship Bulletin Board

From: Roger Greenway, ENN
Published June 24, 2010 04:54 PM



Commemorative Robert Bateman Print Helps Combat Nature Deficit Disorder


ENN is a media sponsor of the Robert Bateman "Get to Know" contest. Now, the National Forest Foundation is offering Robert Bateman's new print Family Hike to benefit More Kids in the Woods which provides grants to nonprofits that take kids beyond four walls and into their backyard — be it a county park, National Forest, or other wild place — an effort to ensure that today’s children know what it is to grow in the open air.

It's summertime, which for many of us means that it's time to lace up our boots and head for the hills. Or perhaps it's time to roll out the tent, pack up the marshmallows, and re-acquaint ourselves with a favorite campsite. Unfortunately, too many children today don’t have the opportunity for these outdoor adventures. You’ve heard of Nature Deficit Disorder, Electronic Overload, and any number of other catchy phrases. Call it what you will, the message is the same: kids don’t spend enough time outdoors.

In today's highly computerized and urbanized world, children have lost their connection to the wonders of the natural world. According to a University of Maryland study, between 1997 and 2003 the proportion of kids ages 9 to 12 who spent time hiking, walking, fishing, playing on the beach or gardening declined 50 percent. Children’s lack of fun time outdoors impacts not only their individual physical and mental health, but also their knowledge of and commitment to conservation.

The National Forest Foundation,'with The U.S. Forest Service, National Wildlife Federation, and the Robert Bateman Get to Know Society, is trying to change that. Proceeds from the sale of Robert Bateman's new print Family Hike will benefit More Kids in the Woods.

Building on Canada's highly successful Get To Know program, More Kids in the Woods provides grants to nonprofits that take kids beyond four walls and into their backyard — be it a county park, National Forest, or other wild place — an effort to ensure that today’s children know what it is to grow in the open air.

Family Hike captures a piece of the collective American memory — the iconic trip to the country or a visit to the family farm. It celebrates the joy of the land and commemorates special places shared across generations. With the purchase of a signed print, you'll help this memory stay alive for today’s youth, tomorrow’s conservationists.

For more information, and to purchase the signed print, please visit: National Forest Foundation