Accessing Wilderness Skills Funding in Idaho's Rural Areas
GrantID: 56014
Grant Funding Amount Low: $5,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $5,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Wilderness Skills and Community Support in Idaho
In Idaho, one of the significant barriers to outdoor engagement is the lack of access to resources and training, particularly in rural communities. The state has a vast wilderness landscape, yet many residents face challenges in connecting with it due to insufficient skills training and community support networks. According to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, over 60% of residents in rural areas report limited opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, which can lead to decreased physical health and social connection. This lack of access is especially poignant in the state's isolated mountain towns where infrastructure is less developed than in urban centers like Boise and Idaho Falls.
Local families and individuals facing these barriers often include those living in frontier regions, where access to outdoor education and resources is significantly limited. Many residents lack basic wilderness skills, which discourages them from engaging in potentially enriching outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. Furthermore, without established community support networks, individuals may feel isolated and uncertain about participating in outdoor experiences, perpetuating a cycle of disengagement and inactivity.
The funding initiative aims to directly address these challenges by supporting workshops that teach essential wilderness skills alongside fostering community connections among residents. Through partnerships with local agencies and organizations, the program will implement a series of skills camps that significantly aim to teach survival skills, navigation, first aid, and environmental stewardship. These camps will not only enhance individual skills but also promote safety and self-sufficiency among participants, which is particularly important in Idaho’s vast and sometimes hazardous outdoor environments. The goal is to create a robust network of supporters who can help one another overcome barriers to outdoor activities.
Furthermore, the initiative emphasizes building a culture of outdoor engagement in Idaho, which is crucial for improving overall community resilience and promoting outdoor participation among residents. By providing hands-on learning experiences, the program seeks to instill confidence in outdoor settings and encourage a deeper appreciation for Idaho's natural resources. Additionally, these workshops will foster connections among participants, creating a sense of belonging and community support that is often lacking in rural areas. The result will be a more engaged population that values and utilizes its natural landscapes safely and responsibly, contributing to healthier lifestyles and stronger community ties. Thus, the initiative impacts not only individual participants but has the potential for wider community development throughout Idaho.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
