Since 1995, Wild Bear Nature Center has been connecting children and families to playing, learning and feeling the health benefits of being in wild nature. Research shows that today American children are in unstructured play outside for on average 4-7 minutes per day. Who will be the future stewards of this planet? How can we support children to be mentally and phisically healthy?Wild Bear provides opportunities for children and families to enjoy mountain nature surrounding Nederland, Colorado. Last year 2,737 children participated in full-day nature programs integrated with the arts and 42% participated through scholarships. With local scientists, Wild Bear’s “Snow School” brings school groups out on snowshoes while learning about snowpack, water, and winter ecology.Wild Bear is in a shopping center where last year 25,0002 visitors explored mountain nature exhibits. Wild Bear was a crucial partner in preserving 3,000 acres in Nederland where Wild Bear owns 5 acres and is now constructing a net zero nature center. This will significantly expand our impact through all access, all-ages opportunities and will give energy back to the grid as an exhibit of how communities can come together to do good work for the future for children.