Nurtured in Nature is a transformative outdoor wellness program designed to close the nature gap in Illinois through outdoor engagements that foster connection, healing, and empowerment.
The program exists to connect people to nature, with a focus on engaging those who have less access to nature in Illinois. New data shows Illinoisans living in low-income communities, rural communities, and communities of color are disproportionately impacted by the loss of nature. We are working to change that.
Everyone is welcome. The program invites community members to join welcoming, slow-paced hikes within Illinois’ natural areas in an effort to build meaningful relationships with one another while deepening connections with the natural environment.
Rooted in the belief that access to nature is a fundamental right, programming centers on those most impacted by nature loss. Nurtured in Nature seeks to dismantle systemic barriers that have historically and intentionally excluded certain communities from outdoor spaces by creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
About the Program
Nurtured in Nature was established in 2024 in collaboration with Healthy Champaign County to address direct concerns voiced by communities throughout Illinois including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in Champaign County, Illinois, related to accessing its forest preserves. The program provided opportunities for community members to experience nature in a way that is accessible and intentional, with a focus on strengthening connection.
Nurtured in Nature has worked to confront the historical and systemic barriers tied to racial and income exclusion, such as the legacy of sundown towns near many local parks and preserves. By offering safe and trauma-informed outdoor experiences, the program aimed to reclaim these spaces for historically-excluded communities and provide the tools to engage with them confidently and meaningfully.
In 2025, with Prairie Rivers Network’s added support, Nurtured in Nature expanded its reach to address the nature gap impacting the broader community, including those living in low-income communities, rural communities and communities of color across Illinois.
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.
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.” Recent analysis from the Center for American Progress revealed that 78% of communities of color in Illinois are nature-deprived, compared to just 22% of white communities. Further, 70% of low-income communities in Illinois are more likely to live in nature-deprived areas, compared to 48% of middle-income communities. The research shows that rural communities are impacted differently, with 70% of white rural communities experiencing nature deprivation compared to 30% of rural communities of color.
No matter how you look at it, Illinois has a problem. PRN believes neither your area code nor your income level should determine your access to the wonders of nature—and its benefits. That’s why we are working to expand access to nature every day of the week.
This initiative is about equity and ensuring that the diverse perspectives and voices that are most impacted by the nature gap are part of its solutions. A broader movement is needed to protect and steward our natural environment in Illinois and beyond.
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 free transit options.
- 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.
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 the voices who have less access to and 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. While all are welcome to participate, the programming is intended to reach and support those more impacted by nature deprivation.
Join the Movement
Nurtured in Nature is a movement to reclaim outdoor spaces and close the nature gap. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels welcome, supported, and connected to nature.
You can support this transformative initiative by:
- Following Nurtured in Nature on Instagram for updates and event announcements.
- Sharing this program with friends, family, and your community.
- 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 by reaching out to Jizelle Torres at jtorres@prairierivers.org.
Let’s close the nature gap in Illinois and nurture a deeper connection to nature—and each other—together.
