1. Instruction in arts, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics that connects the nature experiences, or environmental stewardship. Participants in the activities provided by the program attend an afterschool enrichment club which is led by one of two credentialed teachers in math and science. These instructors spend time discussing, demonstrating, and allowing participants to engage in elements of the activity before they go on the trip. these instructors spend time throughout the experience pointed out the science of each activity. whether it is the physics of biking and boating or the life science of the importance of forest management, participants are getting to experience the learning.
2. Promote service-learning opportunities between schools and local communities. Participants have had conversations with the City of Mendota and Scout Island Education Center about service learning and civic engagement opportunities, and the participants are currently working on plans to complete a project. participants also participated in You Matter Day in Fresno, which is a day of service for school-age people. This event allows students to serve in many ways and be exposed to over 20 different service opportunities.

TreePeople's Rooted y Refrescado, supported by the Outdoor Equity Program, shares a unified mission: expose youth to nature and environmental stewardship, demonstrating green career pathways. Aligned with STEAM standards, California's Environmental Concepts and Principles, and LAUSD's Climate Literacy Initiative pedagogy, the program highlights the urban ecosystem in Huntington Park. Locally, TreePeople completed 8 Eco-Tours centered on building environmental stewardship leaders and exposure to green career pathways; and 10 Community Tree Plantings (deliverable met) that cultivate ownership and commitment within the community. 7 Aire Libre Trips, 1 Restoration Trip, and 34 Nature Walks immerse participants in nature and stewardship aligned with Next Generation Science Standards. Through Service Learning and Environmental activities, TreePeople fosters green career exploration and reduces eco-anxiety while building connection to local ecosystems.

Partnerships for this program include: City of Mendota- working with the city, looking for ways students in this program can enhance the opportunities for families to have more outdoor opportunities.

Mendota Wildlife area - participants in this program have access to this area for biking and kayaking. Participants are able to explore this unique wetland on the west side of Fresno County within minutes of the residence of Mendota. 

Scout Island Education Center - Participants are able to participate in the low and high element ropes course at Scout Island in order to build confidence, communication and team skills. Like many of the trips the participants have the opportunity to experience an activity they have never done before. along with the ropes course, participants also get to see the natural habitat nursery at Scout Island and see how lands are able to be restored to their natural state. Scout Island may also become the Area of interest for participants to do a service project. 

Lessons learned - transportation and weather. the first year of this project was a great success and participants had amazing opportunities, they wouldn't have otherwise had. With every opportunity, we had participants who had never participated in that activity before. However, the historic amount of rain and snow California experienced did hinder some of the planned trips. the hinderance was twofold, one with bad weather, the school district and parents were hesitant to release participants to attend trips. Also, with the number of participants signed up to go we need to use a bussing service, and they have very strict rules on travel to some areas in the state when weather is a concern. Through better and more frequent communication to all involved, we are making headway. but it definitely was a hurdle.

(1) MiSELA , an LGBTQ+ youth center, has partnered with TreePeople’s Outdoor Equity Program to provide outdoor experiences like Aire Libre trips, promoting mental well-being through nature. In addition, MiSELA, engages members in TreePeople’s Community Tree Plantings, offering community hours to youth toward graduation and supporting community environmental goals. (2) The Conservation Corps actively participates in TreePeople’s Community Tree Plantings and Aire Libre trips, helping involve local youth. This partnership has helped maintain strong participation numbers in TreePeople’s Outdoor Equity Program, supporting our Community Tree Planting deliverables. (3) San Antonio Elementary School has become a valued partner, frequently bringing students to TreePeople’s offering at Salt Lake Park, supporting our mission to bring outdoor experiences to youth. Students have expressed strong enjoyment and enthusiasm for the field trips.

As mentioned above, weather is unpredictable, and transportation is heavily influenced by the weather. Through the first year of the project, we have learned to have a solid backup plan when possible. Participants are very eager to go on these adventures and are excited about the opportunities to do something new, have an adventure, and learn something they didn't know. With good alternate activities, we are able to keep up the momentum of their excitement and also keep the trust of the participants and parents.

TreePeople has gained insights to enhance family and community engagement despite scheduling conflicts in Year 2. To address this, we’re implementing flexible scheduling, collaborating with school networks, and partnering with local shops to increase participation in Aire Libre Trips. We’ve also adapted to challenges like late bus arrivals, ensuring communication with bus companies and schools are held before, during, and after trips to help teachers navigate delays. For restoration activities, we’ve shifted to nearby locations like El Monte and Debs Park to ensure greater accessibility. Additionally, interest in the internship program has emphasized the importance of follow-up and targeted outreach, using GIS to identify target schools, enhancing connections with students, and maximizing program impact across the community, strengthening overall program effectiveness.