At IDEAS For Us, we provide a variety of Environmental Education services and programs aimed at inspiring and empowering individuals to make a positive impact on our planet. Our offerings include engaging nature and gardening programs for children, as well as interactive classes and workshops for all ages and more. Led by world class environmental professionals and educators, we offer educational experiences for students of all ages!
The Neighborhood Naturalist program was launched in 2020 with the goal of providing students in West Orlando with the opportunity to participate in nature-based education as part of the renovation of Lake Lorna Doone park, located next to Camping World Stadium.
Through weekly offerings such as “Ecology in Action” and guided nature walks, children and families have been able to grow in their love and knowledge for Florida’s many native flora and fauna species, as well as learn about the importance of preserving the natural world around us. Using a variety of tools such as naturalist backpacks, nature artifacts, and hands-on games & crafts, we are combating “nature deficit disorder” and adding to the mental and physical wellbeing of our students.
Since its inception in 2020, the Neighborhood Naturalist program has provided over 1,500 students and families with the opportunity to participate in engaging nature-based activities.
As of 2024, this program currently serves 438 students in partnership with 3 neighborhood centers (Ivey Lane, Hankins Park, and Rock Lake) and the City of Orlando and 4 schools (Jones High School, Evans High School, OCPS ACE, and West Lakes Early Learning Center) with students ranging in age from preschool through high school.
This program is made possible through the support of key partners such as the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation, City of Orlando, LIFT Orlando, Florida Citrus Sports and PNC bank.
Harvesting Hope is a new program dedicated to bringing local produce directly to our schools from the Fleet Farmlettes! Each week we distribute locally grown fruits and veggies to schools located in West Orlando. Locations for this program include OCPS ACE, Jones High School, Evans High School and the West Lakes Early Learning Center.
The idea for this program sprung from our network of school gardens. Last year we were able to distribute over 500 lbs of produce into our communities through local food giveaways. We can’t wait to see that number continue to grow over the course of this program.
Harvesting Hope is supported by the Florida Blue Foundation and is a four year initiative. We are so thankful for their support as well as for our community. Stay tuned for more updates about our innovative program!
Studies have shown that there is a wide variety of benefits for individuals that receive gardening education and experience. These include increased mental wellbeing, better focus, improved fine motor skills, increased environmental awareness and more, as well as better nutrition through access and knowledge of healthy eating habits.
IDEAS For Us has been a champion of installing gardens and leading gardening programs throughout the Orlando area and beyond. From installing outdoor “living classrooms” at schools and community centers and leading early childhood garden clubs to full fledged agriculture programs at a high school level, we help to provide teachers and students with the support and supplies they need to experience the joys of gardening and growing their own food.
As of 2024, IDEAS For Us directly supports and leads 5 Legacy gardening programs, installed 47 gardens and has provided support for over 50 gardens.
Legacy Gardens:
Supported Gardens:
These programs have been made possible through the generous support of partners such as VoLo Foundation, Wells Fargo, Keep Orlando Beautiful, Orlando City Soccer Foundation and more.
Contact us at contact@ideasforus.org to donate a garden class or school garden today!
We offer a wide variety of classes and workshops geared towards the adult and senior levels. These classes can be tailored to fit your needs and occur on a recurring or a one-off basis. Our experts can provide you with the support and tools you need to make your eco-dreams a reality!
Some of the topics we offer are:
Interested in booking a class? Contact us for more information on pricing.
We are proud to also offer these classes through partners like the Center for Health and Wellbeing and the Orange County Library System. Please check their respective websites for more information on dates and times of upcoming classes.
