15 underserved Manatee County teens to participate in ‘hands-on environmental learning’
The Bishop-Parker Foundation has awarded a $7,668 grant to Big Waters Land Trust in support of the organization’s 2026 Watershed Explorers Summer Camp Youth Adventure and Environmental Leadership Program, the nonprofit land trust has announced.
“This funding will provide 15 underserved teens from Manatee County with the opportunity to participate in a free, week-long immersive experience focused on environmental education, outdoor exploration, and leadership development,” a news release explains.
The land trust is headquartered in Osprey.
“Watershed Explorers is designed to address a growing need among local youth, particularly those from lower-income households, who often lack access to outdoor recreation and hands-on environmental learning,” the release points out. “In this program, participants gain a deeper understanding of how healthy land and water systems support the region’s community, economy, and quality of life,” the release continues.
“During approximately 30 hours of instruction,” the release says, the “students will engage in activities such as kayaking, birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and environmental science exploration. Programming focuses on watershed health, water quality, land conservation, and exposure to locally relevant environmental career pathways, equipping participants with both knowledge and inspiration for future opportunities,” the release notes.
“Participants are recruited from partner organizations and Title I schools serving Manatee County youth, including Boys & Girls Clubs, ALSO Youth, and Tidewell Blue Butterflies, with priority given to underserved students,” the release says. “To ensure accessibility,” it continues, “all transportation, meals, equipment, and supplies are provided at no cost, and each participant receives a $100 stipend upon completion of the program.”
The 15 Manatee County residents, who will range in age from 14 to 17, will be able to use transportation provided from a central county pickup location, the release points out.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Bishop-Parker Foundation for investing in the next generation of environmental stewards,” said Christine P. Johnson, president of Big Waters Land Trust, in the release. “Watershed Explorers creates transformative opportunities for teens to connect with nature in meaningful ways — building knowledge, confidence, and a sense of responsibility for protecting the land and water that sustain our communities,” she added.
“The program reflects Big Waters Land Trust’s commitment to inclusive and equitable access to nature, serving youth from diverse backgrounds who are united by limited access to environmental education and outdoor experiences,” the release explains.
To learn more about Big Waters Land Trust’s youth education and outreach initiatives, visit bigwaterslandtrust.org/events.
“Inspired by the philanthropic legacies of its founders, the Bishop-Parker Foundation supports nonprofit and public partners working collaboratively to advance the Manatee County community for current and future generations,” the release notes. For additional information, contact Wendy Deming at wendy@bishopparkerfoundation.org.