In smaller towns and rural areas, accessing the resources necessary to enhance community health and sustainability can often feel daunting. Prescott, Arizona, faced this challenge head-on. However, by tapping into a broader peer learning network, the city discovered new ways small communities can make a significant impact.
With a population of just over 45,000, navigating the complexities of implementing nature-based solutions can be overwhelming, especially when community leaders feel unsure about the steps to take. “You don’t know what you don’t know,” said Ellen Bashor, City of Prescott’s Outdoor Learning Coordinator.
However, Prescott’s journey took a positive turn when local leaders tapped into a broader peer learning network. This connection allowed them to learn from the experiences of other cities, both large and small. “Hearing stories from other cities and being part of the spectrum of urban and rural communities was enlightening,” shared Bashor. “In smaller towns, it’s easy to feel limited, thinking, ‘I can’t do anything; I’m not San Francisco or Austin.’ But seeing what both large cities like San Francisco and smaller ones like Boulder and Imperial Beach were accomplishing inspired us to believe, ‘Oh, we can do that too!’”
This spirit of collaboration is at the heart of the Nature Everywhere Community Action Challenge. This initiative offers a self-directed, flexible approach for communities aiming to deepen their connection to nature. By participating, towns and cities gain access to a wealth of resources, including:
- A National Peer Learning Network: Connect with nearly 70 communities working towards equitable access to nature.
- The Trailhead: An online community where nature connection leaders can access tools, resources, webinars and private groups.
- Tools and resources: Tools and resources created from nearly 10 years of experience supporting cities in enhancing nature-based solutions for children.
- Promotional Materials: Tools to help build local and national recognition as an Action Challenge Community, including an Action Challenge badge and press release templates.
The Nature Everywhere Community Action Challenge allows participants to progress at their own pace, tailored to their unique needs and comfort levels. This flexibility, combined with the support of a diverse network, is a key benefit of the initiative.
Several small and mid-sized cities and towns within this network have already made significant strides in implementing nature-based solutions for children’s healthy development. Here are a few examples:
- Prescott, AZ: Using GIS maps to provide families with accessible information about nearby natural spaces.
- Batesville, AR: Leveraging data to connect children to nature.
- Kingston, NY: The Kingston Nature Access Team collaborates to set a clear vision and goals for their initiatives.
- Imperial Beach, CA: Creating equity maps to identify needs and disparities related to green space for young children.
Sessions at NLC’s City Summit
Are you ready to elevate your community’s efforts in advancing children and nature strategies? Join us for a drop-by discussion session at NLC’s City Summit to explore how your city can become a Nature Everywhere Action Challenge Community.
You have two options: Thursday, November 14 between 10:30-11:30am in Tampa Convention Center Meeting Room; 403 – 4th Floor, or during the Saturday, November 16 Technical Assistance Showcase starting at 9:00 am.
About the Authors
Federal Funding Opportunities That Support Resilient Infrastructure, Smart Surfaces
- Kyle Funk
- Brigid Deegan
Lessons from the Cities of Opportunity Mayors Institute on Community Revitalization
6 Things to Know About Rail to Help Your Community
- NLC Partnerships
On Your Mind: Commissioner Amber Sellers of Lawrence, KS Discusses How Early Childhood Investments Support Community Wellbeing
Project Yellow Light: Giving Youth Voices a Media Platform to Promote Road Safety
- NLC Partnerships
