Denver Youth Naturally

Denver Youth Naturally (DYN) brings youth ages 5-25 together in a hands-on, active program that provides opportunities for them to experience and learn about Colorado's great outdoors. DYN ignites curiosity and inspires youth in their academic studies, leadership development and career exploration.

Objectives:

• Confidence and self-esteem are developed through hands-on field activities, local excursions and overnight wilderness trips
• With long-term mentoring by biologists and other science professionals, DYN participants find the support to succeed in school
• Through close-knit relationships, youth stay connected to a learning community that enhances their life skills and leadership
• Each adventure includes elements of science and environmental education, recreation, career exploration and job skill development

Activities:

• Youth participate in fishing, hiking, water quality testing, habitat improvement and overnight camping
• Youth visit local museums and participate in community stewardship projects
• Youth can choose to participate in 3-7 diverse activities per month, which occur on Saturday or on district-wide No School Days during the school year
• Each activity builds on the previous one, so youth experience the most complete immersion possible to the natural environment
• ELK participants, ages 16 or over, who enjoy our activities may choose to apply to our summer employment program

To participate, please e-mail Kim at kweiss@elkkids.org or call 303-291-7554.