WAYS TO SUPPORT THE ACADEMY
The Outdoor Academy runs on community. It takes funding, mentorship, gear, and the willingness of local businesses and agencies to open their doors to the next generation. Here's how you can be part of it.
MAKE A DONATION
Your gift directly supports in-school programming, field days on the Monument, professional certifications, and internship coordination. Every dollar goes toward making sure a young person in Taos County has a real shot at a career on the land they grew up on.
A $50 gift covers certification materials for one student.
A $500 gift funds a full semester of in-school instruction.
BECOME AN INTERNSHIP PARTNER
If you run an outdoor recreation business, work for a land management agency, or operate in the conservation sector, we want to talk.
The Outdoor Academy is actively seeking new internship placements for students who are ready to work. Partners gain a motivated, locally-rooted employee who already knows the Monument. Students gain experience that will define their careers.
VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR OR GUEST INSTRUCTOR
Are you a working guide, naturalist, biologist, land manager, or outdoor professional?
The Outdoor Academy's students learn best from people already doing the work.
We welcome guest instructors for classroom sessions, field days, and certification workshops.
SPREAD THE WORD
Know a high school student in Taos County who would thrive in this program? Tell them — or tell their school counselor, teacher, or parents.
The Academy's biggest growth comes from community referrals. The more students we reach, the stronger the program becomes.
GRANTS AND SPONSORSHIPS
Friends of Río Grande del Norte actively pursues grant funding to sustain and grow the Outdoor Academy. Foundations, agencies, and corporate sponsors interested in outdoor workforce development, youth equity, or conservation in northern New Mexico are encouraged to reach out. We'd love to show you what your investment makes possible.
