YES Nature to Neighborhoods

YES Nature to Neighborhoods (YES) was founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to the outdoors and opportunities to lead. YES offers nature-based leadership programs designed for youth and adults 8-84+ in Richmond and West Contra Costa County who have historically been excluded from outdoor spaces and leadership roles. What makes YES unique is our long-term investment: we engage with participants for an average of seven years as they navigate experiences in nature, leadership development, and personal growth.

As they hike trails, paddle rivers, and tackle community advocacy projects, youth and adults build confidence, communication skills, and a deeper sense of purpose. By the time they graduate from our programs, many are:

• Heading to college—100% of YES’s 2024 Youth Leadership Pathway graduates started college this fall, many as first-generation students
• Launching careers in outdoor recreation, youth development, or advocacy
• Taking seats at decision-making tables—64% of Adult Leadership Program graduates serve on civic committees, task forces, or boards, where they tackle pressing community, environmental, and educational issues

YES programs cultivate leaders who are ready to shape a more just and equitable community.