Nature's Calling! Environmental Education

Nature's Calling! Environmental Education (Business Registration Number 833705304RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to connecting youth and families with nature and the outdoors. Founded in 2012, the organization operates the first forest school in southwestern Ontario, providing experiential outdoor education designed to foster awareness, appreciation, and stewardship of the natural world.

Mission and Philosophy

The core mission of Nature's Calling! Environmental Education is to engage children and families in nature-based experiences that nurture a deep connection with the environment. The organization promotes a philosophy centered on child-led, inquiry-based learning, emphasizing immersive outdoor education as a means for holistic development and environmental stewardship.

Programs and Initiatives

Nature's Calling! offers a variety of programs including forest school, summer camps, and curriculum-based outdoor classes tailored to the needs of local schools. The forest school model encourages exploration, creativity, and a hands-on approach to learning in natural settings.

In January 2025, Nature's Calling! expanded its reach by assuming operations of GROWE Outdoor School near Brantford, Ontario. GROWE, originally founded by Tara Carpenter, is a similarly focused forest school renowned for quality outdoor education in the Brantford area. The acquisition integrated GROWE’s staff and programs into Nature's Calling!, with Tara Carpenter joining as Programs Director to ensure continuity and program excellence.

Impact and Community Role

Nature's Calling! plays a significant role in enriching local education by providing alternative learning environments that complement traditional classroom instruction. It offers children with diverse learning styles opportunities to engage deeply with their natural surroundings, supporting both educational outcomes and environmental awareness.

Leadership

The organization is led by Executive Director Bernie Solymár, who has overseen its growth since inception. The integration of GROWE Outdoor School brought on Tara Carpenter as Programs Director, strengthening the organization's leadership team and program capabilities.

Nature's Calling! Environmental Education continues to grow as a prominent advocate for outdoor learning and environmental education in southwestern Ontario, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious and nature-connected youth.