The Educational goals that were achieved by the youth participants consisted of connecting nature experiences and environmental stewardships. This was achieved by building teams and leadership amongst participants throughout the various trips. Participants were able to learn how to offer environmentally friendly solutions during these activities. They also were exposed to environmental issues and learned ways that they could positively impact society by making commitments to recycling, picking up trash, etc.

For an example, during the Bolsa Chica Wetland trip, participants were able to understand the importance of watersheds are and how these watersheds connect to the ocean. They also learned about nutrient-rich and diverse ecosystems, including marine life, terrestrial animals and endemic plants. This type of education met the objectives of the Outdoor Program by learning about the environment and the community, and getting involved in hands-on restoration and education in wetland science, watersheds, coastal ecology and environmental sustainability. During the Huntington Library trip, participants discovered the different types of plants and botanicals in the environment. They also learned the science behind how plants help our world and adapt to every climate from the garden curators. Another example is during the Eaton Canyon Falls trip, participants as a group were able to pause and learn how to recognize plants native and wildlife to the area. Also, participants collectively discussed how fresh water impacts the area. Lastly, during the kayaking excursion, participants observed the ecosystems, conservation and habitat during their downstream paddle. The group engaged in teamwork as a way to self-discover and experience nature in the middle of the City of Los Angeles.

We partnered with REI for the Kayaking excursion. It was a really successful partnership, as they brought a lot of staff to help with this program. For the Outdoor Youth Connection trip, we partnered with the Office of Community Development State Parks. This was also a successful partnership as they provided staff support for this trip.

What has been successful is advertising the program and trips on social media and the City's website. On the City's website we have created a Rio Hondo Nature Program webpage to provide information on the program and upcoming trips. A challenge that we are currently facing is encouraging more youths to register for the activities. We having received more adult interest than youth interest. We are working on our Summer 2024 youth programming and hope that we can entice many more youths to participate.