Branching Out - Nature Centre

Registration for the spring season of Branching Out is now open!

A Nature Interpretation Mentorship Program

Six Saturdays, April 22-June 24

For folks interested in creating a meaningful nature experience for their community in the language linked to their culture.

"Branching Out" is a nature interpretation mentorship program for people who speak English and another language. In exchange for 16 hours of skill development, you will design and deliver a nature walk for the public in the language linked to your culture. Imagine the thrill of teaching others the name of a bird or plant in a language you hold close to your heart!

Apply Now

Program Accessibility

We hope the following offerings will make it easier for everyone to participate.

TTC fare
Snacks
You can apply to participate with a friend who speaks the same language and lead your hike together!

Program Activities

The program starts with learning about Land Acknowledgements and learning from Land. For the rest of the program we will learn from and about all three of High Park's ecosystems (Black Oak Savannah, Woodland, Wetland) and their history and inhabitants.

Each session will include best practices for sharing information to create experiences that build and deepen connections people have with the park.

Nature is always our guide so we may switch around what we teach to reflect what is happening in the moment!

Program Dates

Participants will need to attend the six sessions which will take place Saturdays on the following dates and times:

April 22, 11AM-2PM
May 6, 11AM-2PM
May 20, 11AM-1PM
June 3, 11AM-2PM
June 17, 11AM-1PM
June 24, 11AM-2PM

This schedule might be subject to change. Participants will be informed of any changes.

Selection Process

Fill out the online application form by Monday, April 10, at 11:59PM.
The names of all applicants who meet the criteria and can commit to the program will be entered into a draw. If you apply to participate with a friend and one name is drawn both will be given the chance to participate.

A total of 15 participants will be selected.

How is this program free?

This program is funded entirely by The Chawkers Foundation. We are truly grateful for their generous support.

Past seasons of Branching Out had been supported by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.