What Happens When Kids Touch the Water? | Dr. Jean Fruh

Dr. Jane Fruh shares how the Outside Foundation connects youth with nature through immersive experiences while working to protect and preserve local environments through community-based conservation initiatives.• Executive Director of the Outside Foundation, working to get kids outside and protect local environments in Hilton Head Island, SC• Kids and Kayaks program takes over 1,100 seventh graders annually onto the water, ensuring all children participate regardless of economic status• Earth Day HHI initiative engages 25 community groups and 5 schools in cleanup efforts that removed three-quarters of a ton of trash• Oyster Shell Recycling Program has recycled 165 tons of shells and created 27 reef structures that filter water and provide essential habitat• The foundation builds "living shorelines" that naturally prevent erosion and support coastal ecosystems• Dr. Fruh believes in the power of immersive natural experiences: "If they can't touch it and experience it, how are they going to love it?"• Volunteers can participate in upcoming reef building events, including July 10th at Palmetto BluffVisit www.outsidefoundation.org to register to volunteer or learn more about supporting their environmental initiatives.