Once upon a time, in the nature-kissed state of Wisconsin, vibrant with brilliant shades of green and blue, lived a bunch of cool, curious, and incredibly adventurous kids. These were no ordinary kids, for they were the trusted companions of the legendary character, Whiskers the Witty Woodchuck. Whiskers, with his twinkling eyes and chuckling laughter, was an expert in unveiling the wonders of the natural world for his little friends. Our story begins on a sunny day in Wisconsin, the land of cheese, cherries, and captivating natural beauty. The kids from the charming towns and bustling cities, often found themselves on extraordinary escapades with Whiskers. They explored the dense forests, raced along the sparkling rivers, and climbed the highest bluffs. They even had a secret handshake, which included a series of tail wiggles and paw bumps inspired by Whiskers. These Wisconsin kids, they knew how to give even the loons, the state bird, a run for their money, in terms of their love for nature! They were always up to their ears in interesting activities, be it leaf racing in the rivers, making flower crowns, or turning fallen trees into pirate ships. And boy, were they good at mud-pie making! With Whiskers the Witty Woodchuck as their humorous guide, the kids of Wisconsin would often be found with their cheeks rosy from laughter and their hearts full of love for their state’s beautiful outdoors. On every such adventure, they discovered a new story, a new lesson, and a new love for the natural world. For in Wisconsin, every child knew, the best classroom was the great outdoors! And so, the days passed filled with laughter, adventure, and a whole lot of Wisconsin wilderness!
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For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.
Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin is one of only a few admission-free, community-supported zoos across the country. The Vilas family, who donated the land to the Madison Park and Pleasure Drive Association in 1904, stipulated that the park be free to the public. As the zoo developed within the park, it too remained free thanks to community support. Henry Vilas Zoo is an accredited AZA (Association of Zoos & Aquariums) zoo and our mission is to conserve and protect the wonders of the living natural world. At Henry Vilas Zoo we are proud to provide free admission to our visitors, thanks to the generosity of the Vilas family and the ongoing support of the community. We strive to give everyone the opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of the natural living world. As an accredited AZA zoo, we are committed to our mission of conservation and protection. We invite you to join us in our efforts to ensure the preservation of our living world for future generations.
Gardening can be a great way to save money while providing healthy, fresh food to feed your family. Community gardens give everyone the opportunity to get in touch with nature and reap the benefits of growing their own food. Working together with other gardeners in the community provides a fun and friendly atmosphere, while also giving people of all ages, incomes, and cultures the chance to learn more about gardening from each other. Plus, by volunteering in the community garden, you'll be helping to keep the site running smoothly. Not only can gardening provide a way to save money and get healthier food for your family, it can also be a great way to stay active and bond with your community. Community gardens are a great way to interact with nature and the many gardeners in the area, while also providing a unique opportunity to learn from one another. Plus, by committing to volunteer work at the community garden, you'll be helping to maintain and manage the site. So, why not get outside and join the community gardeners in creating a safe and productive outdoor space?
and is a part of the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. At the Arboretum, parents have the opportunity to introduce their children to the wonders of nature, with 1,200 acres of land dedicated to science and community. The Arboretum is home to multiple restored ecological communities, such as tallgrass and shortgrass prairies, oak savannas, woodlands, and wetlands, as well as two garden collections. With 17 miles of walking trails and 4 miles of biking road, there is plenty of room for adventurous exploration. Furthermore, the Arboretum offers hundreds of learning and volunteer opportunities, making it the perfect place to teach children about the environment and the importance of conservation.
Wisconsin Youth Company offers a unique opportunity for kids in grades 3-5 to get out of the house and explore the great outdoors with their friends with the Wander Wisconsin program. Daily field trips, led by trained adventure trip leaders, are designed to engage and inspire campers. Through seasonal activities, kids can explore their natural environment and make memories they won't soon forget. For parents looking for a summer camp experience for their kids this year, the Wander Wisconsin program from Wisconsin Youth Company is a great option. This outdoor adventure-themed field trip program is perfect for children in grades 3-5 who are looking to get out and explore the natural environment with their friends. With trained adventure trip leaders leading the way, kids can take part in seasonal activities that are designed to engage and inspire while creating lasting memories. Wisconsin Youth Company's Wander Wisconsin program is the perfect summer camp option for parents of children in grades 3-5. Through daily adventure-themed field trips, kids can get outside and enjoy seasonal activities with friends, all while being guided by trained adventure trip leaders. The program is designed to engage and inspire campers, allowing them to explore their natural environment and make memories that will last a lifetime.
My classes are filled with laughter and exploration as we build relationships with the outdoors and each other. My own educational journey has been a revelation. I thought I was running away from the idea of being an educator, but I eventually realized that education was my passion. Instead of the traditional classroom setting, I’ve found ways to make learning fun and interactive. I’ve combined my love of storytelling with my passion for nature to create an educational experience that is both enjoyable and meaningful. I've found my niche and I'm thriving.