Natural Pathways Learning Centre Celebrates Connections To Nature

Thanks To Ontario Government Grant The team at Natural Pathways gathered to celebrated their $178,100 Resilient Communities Fund grant recently from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to develop an outdoor adult wellness program.

This event acknowledged the centre’s commitment to environmental education and stewardship, located in the heart of our community and connected families and individuals with the land through food, fun, and educational experiences.

“We are extremely fortunate to be surrounded by the natural beauty of Essex County, and Natural Pathways Learning Centre does incredible work connecting our community to this wonderful environment. Congratulations on receiving this Ontario Trillium Grant. I look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of your programs.”

Anthony Leardi, MPP for Essex

The Ontario Trillium Foundation’s generous grant supported the expansion of the Natural Pathways Learning Centre’s innovative programs. These programs are designed to foster a deep connection with nature among participants of all ages, through hands-on, experiential learning in the great outdoors. This initiative underscores the importance of sustainable living and environmental awareness, preparing today’s learners for a greener tomorrow.

According to Serena Ellwood, VP of the board of directors for Natural Pathways Learning Centre: “Our hearts are full of gratitude for the Ontario Trillium Foundation support. This grant is not just a recognition of our work, it’s a beacon of hope for the future of environmental education. It enables us to reach more families, to plant more seeds of curiosity and care for our planet.”

As a registered charity, Natural Pathways offers programs to spark curiosity and nurture stronger relationships with the land through discovery, inquiry, play and connection that honours the natural world. They invite the community to join them in their upcoming events, and to learn more about their initiatives, please visit their website.

Natural Pathways Learning Centre is a leading forest and nature school dedicated to providing immersive, nature-based education for children and adults alike. Its programs emphasize outdoor play, learning, and environmental stewardship, encouraging participants to form a deep, meaningful connection with the natural world.

“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Natural Pathways deliver experiences that make a difference,” states Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure Natural Pathways remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit online to learn more.