Los Alamos Reporter

PEEC Awarded Outdoor Equity Fund Grant To Expand Outdoor Access For Northern New Mexico Youth

Photo Courtesy PEEC

PEEC NEWS RELEASE

The Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is proud to be named a recipient of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division’s Outdoor Equity Fund (OEF). Through this grant, PEEC will support both in-school and out-of-school programming for K–12 students across five counties, including Rio Arriba and Los Alamos Counties, increasing access to meaningful outdoor learning experiences for youth. These programs connect young people to the outdoors through accessible, hands-on, place-based learning experiences that support academic learning, social-emotional development, and a deeper sense of community.

With applications for the OEF increasing by 141% this year, and 228 organizations requesting $7.8 million in funding, PEEC is deeply honored to be selected in such a competitive cycle. This funding reflects both the impact of PEEC’s work and the importance of expanding equitable access to outdoor education opportunities for young people.

“We are incredibly thankful for this support,” said PEEC’s Executive Director, Jillian Rubio. “The Outdoor Equity Fund allows us to continue providing high quality programs that connect young people to the outdoors and to the unique landscapes of north central New Mexico.”

The Outdoor Equity Fund is administered by the Outdoor Recreation Division of the New Mexico Economic Development Department.

For more information, visit PEEC’s website at peecnature.org/events. Stay connected on social media for updates on each week’s activities.

PEEC was founded in 2000 to serve the community of Los Alamos. It offers people of all ages a way to enrich their lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. PEEC operates the Los Alamos Nature Center at 2600 Canyon Road, holds regular programs and events, and hosts several interest groups, from birding to hiking to butterfly watching. PEEC activities are open to everyone; however, members receive exclusive benefits such as discounts on programs and gift shop merchandise. Annual memberships start at $35. To learn more, visit peecnature.org/support/membership/.