PROGRAMS
The Foundation partners with organizations like the Geauga Park District, the Burton Public Library, Geauga County Public Libraries and local schools on programs designed to connect the community with nature. Contact us on potential partnership opportunities with your organization.
NATURE SCOPES
Nature Scopes is a year-long program for Geauga County fifth graders that enhances school science instruction by providing hands-on lessons matched to the Ohio Content Standards for science education. Fifth-graders participate in interactive sessions led by Geauga Park naturalists involving outdoor exploration and nature education, concluding with a field day where students are awarded their own binoculars and field guides. All Geauga County public schools and many private schools participate in Nature Scopes.
Since 2003, the Foundation for Geauga Parks has equipped 12,000+ Geauga County students with binoculars and field guides!
CONSERVATION SCHOLARSHIPS
The Foundation for Geauga Parks Conservation Scholarship Program provides scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are pursuing higher education in fields related to environmental studies.
In 2025, the Foundation awarded $10,000 in scholarships to Geauga County students!
EXPLORER SERIES GUIDED EXCURSIONS
The Foundation for Geauga Parks partners with local experts to present the Explorer Series — free, monthly guided excursions throughout Geauga County that celebrate our region’s nature, parks, and wildlife. Each outing is a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and discover the natural, historic, and cultural treasures of our community.
Excursions vary in activity level and may last up to two hours. Most are led by trained naturalists or other knowledgeable guides eager to share their insights and stories. Rain, snow, or shine — we explore in all seasons! Free with RSVP!
GEAUGA SKYWATCHERS & TELESCOPE CHECK-OUT
In 2019, the Foundation helped fund the Geauga Skywatchers Club, a collaboration of organizations that provided tools and training to aid people of all ages in the practice of astronomy.
1200+ local children, youth and adults participated in astronomy focused sessions and telescopes are available for check out in local libraries.
Thanks to generous supporters to the Foundation, telescopes are available for check-out from all Geauga County public libraries and from the Burton Public Library.
CHIP HENRY INSTITUTE ADVENTURE CAMP
Geauga Park District’s Nature Adventure Day Camp, part of the Chip Henry Institute for Outdoor Adventure, offers children an unforgettable opportunity to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. This unique program encourages kids to explore Geauga County’s natural wonders, build confidence in nature, and deepen their connection to the environment.
In addition to enriching the lives of campers, the program provides seasonal staff with meaningful job experience and training in the field of environmental education — a win for both youth and future naturalists.
The Foundation for Geauga Parks supports this important initiative by funding program supplies and services that expand programming and ensure more children have the chance to attend.
