Reflecting on a fulfilling year of programs, events, & connection

Final programs & events of the season

The last few programs of the regular field season included…

• Playing in the water & climbing Alligator junipers at Madera Canyon with Field Studies for Schools

• An overnight at Showers Point – Mt. Lemmon, singing around the campfire with Khalsa Montessori

• Asset mapping in the Elvira & National City Neighborhoods with Community Naturalists & Ward 1

• “Youth for Blue Skies advocate for clean air, ‘a better planet’“ – interns interview with Pima County – check out the story & video!

Bringing it all together at the Season Finale

At the beginning of May, many members of the ITE community gathered at the 4th Ave Coalition Space.

Interns from Youth for Blue Skies & Community Naturalists talked about what they learned and how they will incorporate care for the environment in their future.

Matt Lopez represented ITE’s Keystone Educators and shared about his professional development experience with ITE. Thanks, Matt!

And youth muralist, Mia, talked about her work on the first-ever ITE Mural Project.

Bringing this community of youth, families, teachers, and partners together is always an inspiring way to end and reflect on the field season.

But – we’re not quite finished

Wrapping it up & tying it with a bow – Summer Backpacking trips

Summer backpacking trip #1 with 10 youth was a success!

The group backpacked on Mt. Lemmon Trail, cooked together, played games, developed as a team, and most importantly, built confidence in themselves.

They also got to see the beauty and diversity of our sky island region.

What an amazing way to kick off the summer program. We look forward to welcoming back youth from trip #2 on June 21st!

Reflecting on accomplishments & successes

Spring Fundraising – so close to $75k!

Thanks to our supporters & a recent donation of $15,000, we’ve reached $67.5k towards our spring fundraising campaign, wow!

You, our community, have truly supported and validated the importance of our mission – making it possible for young people to engage with the natural world and be stewards of the environment.

You can still donate to help us reach $75k and meet the critical needs of our organization.

Please, consider donating today.

Thank you!

Stay cool out there.

~The ITE team