The Stewart L. Udall Parks in Focus Program
What is Parks in Focus?
Parks in Focus® connects middle school youth from underserved communities to nature
through photography, environmental education, and creative expression. Through partnerships
with parks and youth-serving organizations, Parks in Focus®
- Provides outdoor experiences for middle school youth who have limited exposure to
nature;
- Increases participants’ appreciation for their local environment and public lands;
- Encourages participants to use photography as a tool for environmental learning
and as an outlet for creative expression; and
- Engages participants in service and stewardship.
Our program is free to participants and provides important “firsts” such as camping
or visiting a national park or wildlife refuge for the first time. Photography lessons,
field trips, and camping excursions build skills, enhance self-esteem, and promote
creativity.