“I CAN’T WAIT TO COME BACK TOMORROW!”

-Sam, age 13

Every day when Sam left camp, this is what he told his counselors. When the summer started, he was very quiet and reserved. He had spent the first year of middle school without many friends. But as his interest in nature developed, he began to come out of his shell, chatting with his counselors and fellow campers. He would hike through the woods with his group and confidently imitate a hawk screeching. When a hawk would return his call, the other campers thought Sam was magic. At home, Sam’s mom noticed a change in him too. He was talking to her more and sharing his experiences from camp. One morning at drop-off, Sam’s mom stopped the camp director and said, “This camp has
literally changed my son’s life. Thank you.”

December 2012
Dear Friend,

The Friends of Rye Nature Center is so happy to inspire kids like Sam. Instead of spending his summer in front of the television or computer, Sam spent his days hiking in the Rye Nature Center forest. There he not only learned about nature and science, but he realized the confidence within himself to build friendships.

Some argue that the current generation of kids will be the first to have little connection with nature. I grew up “outdoors” building forts, exploring and playing in the woods, eating vegetables from my parents’ garden. Children today often do not have these same opportunities.

You can help give this connection to nature back to our younger generation. Our nature education programs are top notch—whether it be our summer camp, preschool ecology program, after school activities for elementary kids or weekend hikes and programs for families.

The Friends of Rye Nature Center provides a safe, educational atmosphere where children can reconnect with the outdoors and cultivate a respect and love for nature that will last a lifetime. Experiences at our programs can give them the same wonderful memories that I have.

Make a gift today. Your donation will support our educational endeavors and help restore and maintain our 47-acre oasis, ensuring that children like Sam and families in our communities will always have a place to be outside.

Sincerely,
Karen Baker

P.S. Please consider donating online at www.ryenaturecenter.org under Annual Appeal 2012. Your employer’s matching donation is appreciated.