Needs From: Belmont Office of Community-Engaged Learning and Service

The Nature Discovery Program is a partnership between Friends of Warner Parks, the Warner Park Nature Center, and Metro Parks Community Centers to reach youth who lack direct access to, and are often underrepresented in, traditional environmental education and outdoor recreation programs. The Nature Discovery Program is activated in a number of ways including:

Nature Detectives Club: an after-school program for youth at Metro Nashville Community Centers. This program provides science-based teachings and empowers kids to explore nature. This program takes place at more than 20 Community Centers throughout Davidson County. 

P.E.N. Pals (People Exploring Nature) Summer Camp: brings youth from Metro Parks Community Centers to the Warner Parks for a full day of nature exploration and outdoor adventure! Youth follow their curiosity as they explore the meadow, pond, and garden ecosystems, hike through the forest, observe wildlife, kayak, learn outdoor skills, search for crawdads in the Little Harpeth River, and create lasting memories in nature. 

P.E.N. Pals (People Exploring Nature) Fall Campfire & Night Hikes: Community Center youth experience the Warner Parks during the fall season. Earlier sunsets and cooler temperatures mean it's time to roast hot dogs, make s'mores, and enjoy time around the bonfire. Youth take a crepuscular hike through the meadows and forests of the Warner Parks and view the night sky while learning about nocturnal creatures. 

*We are looking for college-aged volunteers to participate in any of these branches of the Nature Discovery program, as the youth often find it easier to connect with this age group. This opportunity is wonderful for those who are interested in education, biology, sustainability, or environmental studies.*

Please see below for approximate date ranges throughout the year: 
Nature Detectives: year-round. Typically on a weekday between 3:00pm-5:00pm
P.E.N. Pals Summer Camp: June and July
P.E.N. Pals Fall Campfire & Night Hikes: October

If you are interested in volunteering with any of these opportunities, please contact Arabella Pagan at apagan@warnerparks.org for next steps. A background check may be required.