Cities Connecting Children to Nature State & Regional Cohort

WHEN: Tuesday, June 8, 1:00-2:30 p.m. CT 

WHAT: This virtual workshop will highlight CCCN’s systems change approach to increasing equitable nature access and share case studies from cities who have been successful in leveraging local, regional and state partners and resources. The workshop is a prerequisite for application to CCCN State & Regional Cohort. Workshop presenters will provide an overview of the cohort and answer questions related to the application process. A recording of the workshop will be available. 

Watch Recording

WHEN: August 2021 through October 2023 (26-month engagement) 

WHAT: Participating organizations and collaboratives will receive technical assistance to launch a regional or state-wide network of cities who will work together to increase equitable access to nature for children—with a focus on communities that lack nature access due to systemic racism and injustice. Convening organizations and collaboratives will serve as organizers and advocates for their regional city networks, supporting cities in connecting and leveraging local efforts for greater results.

Cohort activities include: 

• Conduct an assessment of regional or state partnerships, programs and resources to identify opportunities for collaboration with cities 
• Utilize the CCCN Theory of Change, resources, and strategies for advancing equitable access to nature 
• Develop plans and fundraise for the launch of a regional network of cities  
• Build and strengthen ties with local communities that lack nature access. 
• Engage in peer discussion across other regions to inform development of a CCCN Regional Model

Participating organizations receive:

• A CCCN Leadership Lab training to develop skills for providing technical assistance and proceeding with equitable participation that emphasizes the involvement of those most affected by inequitable connections to nature
• Monthly calls with CCCN staff to support action plans and implementation 
• Support in fundraising to launch  regional cohorts that engage municipal leaders
• Access to CCCN resources, materials and peer learning groups to exchange strategies and approaches
• A site visit from CCCN staff, peers and/or national experts to host a regional stakeholders meeting for launching the project or for project planning 
• $20,000 in funding for active participation in the cohort 

To apply, in two pages or less, please submit a Letter of Intent that addresses demonstrated capacity in the following:

• The staff or volunteer capacity to actively participate in the cohort and its activities 
• Engaging and prioritizing representation from and an increase in nature access for communities of color and low-income residents  
• An interest in leveraging CCCN as a path for advancing equitable access to nature
• A strong network of partners and the ability to mobilize local organizations and elected officials in support of nature-based programs, services and policies
• Demonstrated regional or state momentum and/or capacity to advance policies, funding opportunities or strategies to support equitable access to nature for children throughout the region.

Additional Support for Applicants: Optional office hours to ask questions and connect with staff:
Thursday, June 10, 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. CT
Tuesday, June 15,  2:00 – 3:00 p.m. CT 

Apply by July 1, 2021  | Three organizations will be selected

Apply

Cities Connecting Children to Nature (CCCN). Longstanding systems of inequity have influenced the design and distribution of green spaces. Cities Connecting Children to Nature, a joint initiative of  the National League of Cities and the Children & Nature Network, with funding from The JPB Foundation, supports municipal leaders and their community partners in shifting planning, policies and programs to connect children to the benefits of nature more often and more equitably.