Education
Sometimes the first step to enjoying the outdoors is learning about the outdoors. From educational programs to events to publications, PPFF and our friends strive to bring education to you in a variety of formats. Learn from the comfort of your home with our Lunch & Learn YouTube series that covers a wide-ranging variety of outdoor topics. See them all on the L&L playlist.
See the Educational Opportunities already made possible through your support with a click to the Gallery.
See Accomplishments
The Environmental Rights Amendment
One of only six states in the nation to codify the citizens' right to a protected environment, Pennsylvania is a leader in the environmental movement. In 2021, we celebrate 50 years of this important part of our Constitution.
Health & the Outdoors
Sixty-five percent of Pennsylvanians believe that being outside is a part of their health care plan. They - you - we know that our physical, mental, and emotional health is enhanced by time spent outside. And our state parks and forests are a great place to start! Find out more about the health/outdoor connection.
Conservation Heritage Project
Finding conservation leaders for our future often involves looking to the conservation heroes of our past. See them - and their important work - at the website that grew from a partnership PPFF helped to found.
Environmental Stewardship
PPFF is a proud partner with Leave No Trace. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics protects the outdoors by teaching and inspiring people to enjoy it responsibly. The Center accomplishes this mission by delivering cutting-edge education and research to millions of people every year. Find out more about LNT principles and help spread the word.
The Impact of COVID-19
If anything "good" can be said to have come from the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic it might be that we all rediscovered the vital importance of our parks and forests. Recreation in local parks, in state parks and forests, in outdoor pursuits of all kinds surged to an unprecedented (and unexpected) degree. The Foundation helped visitors find their literal and figurative footing, and we continue to explore ways to use the lessons learned throughout 2020 to further our connections to the places that matter.
Wilderness Wheels Transportation Scholarships
"Well begun is half done." True, but sometimes beginning means simply getting to the starting line. And transportation is a barrier for many outdoor users - young and old. Wilderness Wheels helps overcome that barrier.
Presentations
Would you like to learn more about the Foundation? The parks and forests themselves? Conservation history? Have knowledge, will travel!
125 Years of Stewardship & Conservation
2018 was an important year for state parks and forests, marking their 125th anniversary. Find out more about the celebration and the creation of an annual Parks & Forests Week each May.
Gateway Communities
As you travel to your favorite park or forest, pay special note of the communities right next door. The people, businesses, and local amenities offer more than just an ice cream cone. (Although who can argue with good ice cream?) The Gateway Communities project began with a meeting to involve the people of Ligonier in a vision to connect their businesses and town to the public lands right next door. Great things happened!
Educational Improvement Tax Credit
The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program enables Pennsylvania businesses to directly invest in the education of our youth through scholarships and supporting innovative educational practices. Interested?
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Our Work
Volunteers are the lifeblood of any nonprofit. Whether you’re a trailbuilder, a wildlife expert, an event organizer, or one of those special people who always say, “Just put me to work wherever you need me,” Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests have a role for you.
Find your niche. Make your voice heard with decision makers. Pitch in with a friends group. Work on your own or with your family, friends, and co-workers as a Steward of Penn’s Woods. Support any of the programs and initiatives we promote. You will be welcome as a volunteer. And it’s as good for you as it is for your state parks and forests!
Protect Our Parks and Forests
A billion dollar need for our state parks and forests. With the support of the Richard King Mellon Foundation, that was the conclusion of The Legacy of Pennsylvania’s State Parks and Forests: The Future Is In Our Hands. Read the report and find out more at ProtectOurParksandForests.org. For our health, our economy, and our future.
Parks & Forests Week
Parks & Forests Week – May 23 through May 30
The Foundation was proud that the 125th anniversary of state parks and forests (2018) resulting in the declaration of the first Parks & Forests Week. It’s the perfect opportunity to volunteer. To visit a new place. To appreciate the gifts of our public lands. Watch our calendar for how we’ll celebrate this year!