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ABOUT US
Our Mission & Vision
The Nature Connect mission is to cultivate curiosity, compassion, and connection with the natural world. In a time where computer and cell phone use is so prevalent, we believe it’s important to get kids unplugged from technology and reconnected with the natural world.
Studies show that time spent in nature increases attention span, ability to concentrate, self- esteem, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Children who spend more time outdoors and participate in cooperative group activities also have healthier relationships with friends and family.
Our vision is to support children to develop an appreciation for each other and the natural world, so that they grow into dedicated leaders and environmental stewards in their communities.
Our programs include exploring outdoors, animal tracking, nature & sensory awareness, storytelling, local plant and animal study, mentorship, empowerment, primitive skills & crafts, and lots of fun and play!
Our Story
The vision for Nature Connect formed when Brinkley Hutchings, who spent her childhood outside in Baldwin County, wondered, “who is going to preserve the land and keep the air and water clean if children don’t have a connection to the outdoors?” Brinkley created Nature Connect in January 2016 in Wilmington, NC to support children to experience a strong bond with the natural world, so they grow into empowered and dedicated stewards. In 2017, she moved home to start the Alabama chapter of Nature Connect.
What began as a small class of 20 students has become a school that has reached thousands of children in North Carolina and Alabama. After 8 years of programming, the NC chapter of Nature Connect was sold and carried on under the name Three Pines Project. We are grateful to see it continue to flourish!
Nature Connect School is now entirely based in Fairhope, AL and serves families in Baldwin and Mobile counties. Our school is thriving, and we are so thankful to our community for supporting us. Seeing the joy in the children and their excitement to learn makes us thankful to be doing this work every day.