Loon Foundation Revives Monthly Family Nature Events
The Loon Foundation is expanding its youth environmental programming, bringing new opportunities for kids and families to explore, learn, and appreciate nature through outdoor adventure.
One of these initiatives kicked off last weekend with the relaunch of the Sunshine Coast Chapter of NatureKids BC. The project invites kids and their families to get outside, build curiosity about local ecosystems, and spark a lifelong appreciation for nature. Monthly Explorer Days will be guided by local nature mentors and Indigenous knowledge keepers, offering place-based learning experiences and new ways of understanding the world.
The first Explorer Day, last weekend, was a bat walk led by Michelle Evelyn, leader of the Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project and member of BC Bat Action Team at Banditry Cider in Gibsons. Youth had a rare opportunity to use bat detectors to identify local species, including Yuma Myotis and Silver-haired Bats, while learning about the integral role they play in local ecosystems.
“I’m thrilled to volunteer as a club leader to bring NatureKids back to the Sunshine Coast,” said Lana Brandt, executive director of the Loon Foundation. “I believe this program will create meaningful connections for children to connect with nature and their community in fun and engaging ways. As a twin mom, I’m especially excited to help lead this initiative and see local families, including my own, discover the rare beauty we have on the Coast.”
Participation is free and open to families living or visiting the Sunshine Coast. To take part, families simply become Nature Kids BC members at no cost by registering for the Sunshine Coast location. Families can also learn about upcoming events and opportunities by joining the Loon Foundation youth newsletter list.
