Nurtured in Nature – a transformative outdoor wellness program designed to address and close the nature gap in Illinois through engagements outdoors that foster connection, healing, and empowerment for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. Organized and directed by Nurtured in Nature’s founder, Tomas Delgado, this initiative invites Illinois’ BIPOC residents to join easy, inclusive hikes, build meaningful relationships, and deepen connections with the environment.
Rooted in the belief that access to nature is a fundamental right, Nurtured in Nature seeks to dismantle systemic barriers that have historically and intentionally excluded communities of color from outdoor spaces, creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
About the Program
Nurtured in Nature builds upon the foundation established through its 2024 collaboration with Healthy Champaign County. It provides opportunities for BIPOC individuals to experience nature in a way that is accessible, low-pressure, and focused on connection rather than exertion.
These gatherings are about more than just hiking — they are an opportunity to strengthen relationships, share stories, and create lasting memories in natural spaces. While environmental education often arises naturally in conversation, the program prioritizes community and belonging above all else.
Nurtured in Nature confronts the historical and systemic barriers tied to racial exclusion, such as the legacy of sundown towns near many local parks and preserves. By offering safe and trauma-informed outdoor experiences, the program aims to reclaim these spaces for BIPOC communities and provide the tools to engage with them confidently and meaningfully.
Why It Matters
Nature offers immense mental, physical, and emotional benefits, yet systemic inequities — including racial discrimination and economic disparities — have created a significant “nature gap.” A 2020 report from the Center for American Progress revealed that 77% of communities of color in Illinois are nature-deprived, compared to just 21% of white communities.
Nurtured in Nature is actively working to close this gap by:
- Creating welcoming, restorative outdoor experiences.
- Expanding access to natural areas that may require transportation through carpools and mass transit.
- Providing mental health support and trauma-informed activities.
- Amplifying voices most impacted by the nature gap through multimedia storytelling, art and advocacy.
- Building a stronger sense of community and belonging in the outdoors.
This initiative is not just about equity; it’s about ensuring that diverse perspectives and voices are part of the broader movement to protect and steward our natural environment.
2025 Event Schedule
Nurtured in Nature offers seasonal hikes across Illinois culminating in a community celebration at Allerton Park. Each event is designed to be accessible and inclusive for participants of all comfort levels.
Join us for our Summer 2025 hike! Nurtured in Nature is heading to Warbler Ridge in Charleston, IL on July 19th. Registration is required, so register for your spot today.
Throughout the year, additional pop-up hikes and collaborative events are hosted in partnership with local organizations like the Urbana Arts and Culture Program, Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center, and CU BIPOC Artist Collective. Keep up with Nurtured in Nature on social media or join our newsletter in order to stay up to date on upcoming hikes and other events we will be popping up at!
What to Expect
Each hike is carefully planned to create a welcoming and enriching experience for participants. Highlights include:
- Leisurely guided walks designed to foster connection and relaxation.
- Post-hike gatherings with refreshments, reflection, and mindfulness activities all focused around building community in nature.
- Opportunities to contribute to a multimedia storytelling project that amplifies BIPOC experiences in nature.
- A year-end celebration to honor participants’ journeys and explore ways to continue advocacy for equitable access to outdoor spaces.
Hikes are accessible, casual, and held rain or shine. For those needing extra support, transportation is provided. There’s no cost to join, and participants are encouraged to engage in whatever way feels comfortable, whether hiking the trails or simply enjoying the base camp.
Join the Movement
Nurtured in Nature is more than just a program — it’s a movement to reclaim outdoor spaces for BIPOC communities. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels welcome, supported, and connected to nature.
You can support this transformative initiative by:
- Follow Nurtured in Nature on Instagram for updates and event announcements.
- Sharing this program with friends, family, and your community.
- Volunteering or donating to Prairie Rivers Network to help ensure that more people can access these life-changing experiences.
Ready to Get Involved?
Sign up for our next event or learn how you can contribute to this inspiring program. For questions or more information, reach out to Tomas Delgado at info@prairierivers.org.
Let’s close the nature gap in Illinois and nurture a deeper connection to nature — and each other — together.
